Tips for Safe Spring Driving

N. Van Buren St. looking at E. Ogden Ave. File photo by Jeramey Jannene.

While springtime heralds a much-welcomed change in seasons—particularly for those living in the Midwest—it doesn’t mean a change in the need for attention to safe driving fundamentals. Along with warmer temperatures come more drivers on the road, as people tend to get out more so than in the winter months. This is particularly true of younger drivers as they attend school events like prom. It’s important to understand that some of the biggest risks in springtime are weather-related. The following are valuable tips and insights to improve safe driving habits.

Unpredictable Weather and Road Conditions

Spring in the Midwest can look very similar to winter, so it’s important to be aware of the broad range of weather events that drivers may come across. Sleet, rain, flooding, and even snow are all weather conditions drivers can expect in springtime. Beyond the weather, springtime also means road construction projects that bring their own sets of hazards. Some best practices to be aware of in such conditions:

Slow down 

From changing traffic patterns for new construction projects to stormy weather that limits road visibility, the road ahead might be unpredictable or unfamiliar. Driving more slowly when unsure of what is ahead is an important way to avoid accidents. Speeding will not help a driver get to a destination quicker, but it will increase the risk of collisions.

Expect construction

Springtime also means road construction season, which means regular traffic flows will likely be impacted. Slower traffic, road closures, and detours are challenges that drivers should be ready for when entering a construction zone. Drivers should stay focused on the road, drive defensively, and follow all traffic signs to ensure safety.

Keep up regular maintenance on your vehicle

Understanding the value of a well-maintained vehicle and learning the basics of car maintenance is an important skill for any driver. Keeping a vehicle well maintained can reduce the risk of breakdowns while driving.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving causes almost 280,000 injuries per year. Looking at a phone for directions, switching the radio station, or simply having other passengers in the vehicle can result in distractions that increase the risk of accidents.

Several ways to mitigate distracted driving include:

• Adjusting the vehicle’s Bluetooth feature to voice directions, rather than having to reference a screen
• Creating a text auto-reply to be sent to those trying to reach you, letting them know that you’re driving and unable to respond
• Creating a playlist or choosing your favorite radio station to play music before putting  the car in drive
• Avoid multitasking. Drivers should only do one thing while on the road—focus on driving
• Limit the number of passengers and the amount of activity taking place in the vehicle

West Bend Mutual Insurance has a number of resources to ensure the safest driving possible, for everyone, including a list of best driving practices.

Sharpen Safe Driving Skills

The best way to combat springtime weather-related driving challenges is through education and practice.

Often, teen drivers learn their skills by practicing with family and friends and via online learning platforms to earn their driving license. Teens may miss out on in-person or group driving school, which teaches vital aspects of driving such as expectations for road conditions and skill development to successfully manage any driving risks that may arise.

Road America’s Teen Driving Program is a beneficial way to build defensive driving skills and hone safe driving techniques that include:

• Skid prevention and control
• Collision avoidance maneuvers
• Proper vision skills
• ABS vs. threshold braking, among other important skills

West Bend Mutual Insurance policyholders can receive a discount for the  Road to America’s Teen Driving Program and can learn more about the program and upcoming dates on the West Bend Mutual Insurance website.

Learn more about preventing distracted driving and find other resources at thesilverlining.com.