Watch Out For These Road Hazards As The Seasons Change From Winter To Spring

Getting into a Connecticut auto accident could happen at any time throughout the course of the year.  No matter the season, accidents happen and can result from a variety of different things happening while you’re behind the wheel.

However, there is one time of year that can be particularly challenging to navigate if you’re not alert and staying focused on the road ahead.  The time that transitions us between winter and spring  can be a particularly precarious time of year for drivers to avoid getting into serious accidents that are a result of road conditions.

While seeing the seasons change is something that most New Englanders are familiar with, seeing the conditions on the road change can be a bit jarring for drivers.  If you are heading out in a motor vehicle over the next two to three months you will want to keep an eye out for these hazards that can put you in a difficult situation which could become dangerous if you’re not careful.

1. Potholes.  Throughout the winter months the road expands and contracts due to fluctuations in temperature and ice forming underneath the surface of the road.  This can lead to potholes opening up and causing a hazard for you as you’re driving where there may not have been one before.  If you are not paying attention, hitting a pothole can not only do damage to your vehicle it may also send you out of control and risk putting you in a situation where you may get injured.  The transition between winter and spring may also be a time before road crews have been able to get around to fill these potholes so they may be more prevalent.

2. Snow banks.  While we have not had a large amount of accumulating snow this winter, in winter’s past we have had  long after the snow has melted from your front yard, snow  lingering along city streets or in shopping plaza parking lots in  large mounds  making visibility difficult.  If you are driving along and come across one of these large snow banks you will need to take extra care to see around the snowbank and avoid ending up in an accident.

3. Debris on your windshield.  It is always important to keep your windshield clear while driving during any season, but the time between winter and spring is an especially dangerous time for debris to make it up onto your window and if it is not clear it can present a visibility hazard that could cause you to not be able to see clearly in front of you.  This can be avoided by ensuring that your windshield wiper fluid is full and that your windshield wipers are functioning properly.  If they are not, take care of that immediately before you continue driving around during this time of the year.

Hazards come and go throughout the year depending on the changing seasons.  One of the most concerning times of the year for Connecticut auto accidents is the time between winter and spring as the seasons are changing, but conditions can still be quite dangerous.  You should be aware of the hazards that may be caused by the changing season and make sure to be alert to them as you are driving during this time of the year.

Our experienced attorneys have reviewed cases of all kinds and may be able to speak with you about the situation that you find yourself in if you have been injured.  Contact our office and speak with one of our attorneys who may work with you to protect your long-term interests.