Springtime is just around the corner and as we start to head into the warmer months, we are bound to see some early signs of spring. That means longer and warmer days and some of that built up snow starting to melt. However, with warmer temperatures and snowmelt come a few road hazards. Even though the weather may look nice, there are still a few weather conditions that can cause you to get in a car accident. Personal injury lawyers have compiled a list of hazards to be aware of on early spring days to prevent you from getting in a car accident.
Black Ice
Black ice is the product of what we call the “thaw-freeze cycle.” The thaw-freeze cycle is when snow and ice melt during the day but then freeze at night when temperatures get colder. This happens in-between seasons as temperatures fluctuate. This cycle causes black ice on the roads and sidewalks, so on your daily commute be aware of black ice, especially during the mornings. Black ice is very hard to see. You’ll need to drive a little slower and keep a safe distance from other drivers. If you are hit by someone that slides into you, a personal injury lawyer can help your case.
Potholes
Potholes can actually cause more accidents than you realize. Personal injury lawyers have handled cases where a driver ran over a pothole and it caused them to lose control of their vehicle. Driving over a pothole can also ruin your car’s tires and throw off your car’s alignment. During the spring you are bound to see more potholes on the road because as water seeps into the cracks on the roads, it can freeze and the cracks expand, causing cracks and breaks. If you see a pothole on the road, try to avoid running over it with your tires if you can. Just be careful not to swerve out of your lane and hit another car.
Wet roads
With warmer temperatures comes snowmelt, and the roads are going to be a little more wet than usual during the early spring months. Be cautious of wet roads because, even though they may not be icy, they can still cause your vehicle to slide. You should also be cautious of large puddles on the road, as they can be concealing a pothole. Running over a water-filled pothole can cause you to splash other drivers and lose control of your vehicle. When you splash other drivers you might obscure their vision as well. When driving on wet roads, make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition to increase your visibility, especially on rainy spring days.
Once winter comes to a close, it’s important to take your car in for an inspection and make sure everything is running properly on your car. Winter weather conditions can be hard on our vehicles, especially tires, breaks and windshield wipers. Make sure your car is in good condition to stay safe during spring weather conditions.
If you have been in a car accident due to weather conditions, contact a personal injury lawyer today. Personal injury lawyers at Robert J. DeBry and Associates can help you build a claim and deal with pesky insurance companies. Personal injury lawyers know the hassle of working with insurance companies and can help you get compensation for any damages or medical bills. Call a personal injury lawyer today to get started on your claim, and make sure to stay safe on the roads during these late-winter, early-spring months!