As the Missouri frost thaws and the landscape turns green, many of us look forward to more time spent on the road. However, spring in the Show-Me State brings more than just blooming flowers; it brings a significant shift in driving conditions. Car accidents often spike during this season due to unpredictable weather, increased traffic, and changing road environments.
A single moment of negligence can change a life. To help you and your family navigate the transition into warmer months safely, we have compiled the following essential safety tips.
Watch Out for "Spring Slippery" Roads
Most Missourians are prepared for winter ice, but spring rain can be just as treacherous. After a dry spell, the first rainfall of spring brings oil and grease to the surface of the asphalt, creating a slick film that reduces tire traction.
Increase Following Distance: Give yourself extra room to react if the car in front of you hydroplanes.
Check Your Tread: Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread depth to channel water away.
Navigate Pothole Season with Caution
The freeze-thaw cycle of winter leaves our Missouri highways riddled with potholes. Swerving to avoid a crater in the road can lead to head-on collisions or side-swipe accidents. If you cannot safely move around a pothole, slow down and release your brakes just before impact to minimize damage to your suspension and the risk of losing control.
Be Mindful of Increased "Sharing of the Road"
Spring marks the return of motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians to our streets. These travelers are smaller and harder to see than standard vehicles.
Check Blind Spots Twice: Before changing lanes or turning, perform a double-take to ensure a motorcycle isn't in your path.
Respect Crosswalks: With more people out walking, be extra vigilant in residential areas and downtown Waynesville or Rolla.
Account for Animal Activity
Spring is a peak time for wildlife activity. Deer are frequently on the move during dawn and dusk, which often coincides with many residents' daily commutes. If you see one deer, assume there are more nearby. Use your high beams when appropriate and stay focused on the shoulders of the road.
Stay Results-Focused After an Accident
Even the most cautious drivers can be involved in a collision due to the negligence of others. If you are involved in an accident, your priority should be your health and documenting the scene. Seek medical attention immediately, as many spring-related injuries, like whiplash, may not manifest symptoms until days later.
Compassionate Legal Advocacy You Can Trust
At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident takes on a family. Our results-focused team is dedicated to helping Missouri residents secure the compensation they need to recover and move forward. We bring decades of courtroom experience and a tireless work ethic to every case we handle. If you or a loved one has been injured this spring, do not face the insurance companies alone.
Contact Lowe Dreesen Miller today at (573) 888-8888 for a free consultation to discuss your rights and your path to justice.