It is important to understand that each season brings different driving conditions. Along with warmer weather, spring brings rain and the potholes of last winter. Here are some tips to keep you and your family safe on the roads this spring.

Spring showers bring May flowers and wet driving conditions

Slow down on slick roads, and increase your following distance even when mist begins to fall. Just a small amount of water can mix with oil and grease on the road to create slippery conditions.

Share the road with motorcyclists and bicyclists

Stay alert and attentive for riders on the road and be courteous. Motorcycles and bicycles have the same right to be on the road. Some basic tips for adjusting to such drivers is to keep constant situational awareness on the road. Use all of your mirrors and always look over your shoulder before turning or switching lanes, as well as using your car blinker.

Watch for pedestrians and kids playing outside

As temperatures increase, more people are outside. Slow-down in your neighborhood and pay extra attention at crosswalks. If pedestrians have the walk signal, they have the right of way.  If a ball goes bouncing across the street, chances are there will be a child chasing after it.  It is your responsibility to keep an eye out for such situations and be prepared to stop if needed.

Watch for animals

Animal activity increases during the spring.  Some are emerging from hibernation, and others are entering mating season. This could mean that more animals are crossing streets and roaming around. Watch out for animals especially during the early morning and evening when animals are most active.

Understand the impact of medications on driving

For many people, spring means seasonal allergies.  Over-the-counter allergy drugs can have side effects or interact with other medications to diminish your driving ability.

Be on the lookout for potholes

Extreme winter weather takes a toll on our roadways, creating large potholes. Heavy rain can fill them with water making them difficult to see. Potholes can damage your car leading to expensive repairs. Keep a safe following distance in case the driver in front of you reacts. Never swerve to avoid a pothole. This can put you and your family in a more dangerous situation. If you can, gently brake before the pothole or go around it.

Keep your tires properly inflated

Full tires can reduce the damage caused by potholes and other road hazards.

Inspect your tires

Adequate tire tread is important for wet weather driving.  Tire tread actually moves water away from the tires.  As tire tread wears, less tread means reduced traction.

Pay attention in construction zones.

When driving through construction zones, follow these tips:  be attentive, understand and follow the signs, make safe lane changes and slow down.