What’s the worst thing about driving in the spring?
Written by: Simon Pavey, Last updated:14th February 2022
Spring is finally in the air – the evenings are getting lighter, the weather is starting to improve (kind of), and drivers across the country are planning trips and excursions to enjoy the better conditions.
It’s undoubtedly a lovely time of the year, but spring can also bring its fair share of problems and irritations for motorists. Here are some of the potential issues to be aware of when you hit the road between March and May:
Potholes
A perennial bugbear of road users, potholes can be a major problem in the spring. They are a hangover from the winter months, caused when water seeps into cracks in the roads, freezes and expands. This creates holes that are not only unsightly and unpleasant to drive through, but potentially hazardous to drivers and pedestrians.
Most car owners will be familiar with the experience of hitting a particularly nasty pothole. In the worst cases, they can cause damage to your tyres, suspension and other parts of your car, so it’s always wise to be on the lookout for holes and to avoid them if you can.
Sun glare
It’s nice to see more of the sun in spring, but, when you’re behind the wheel, bright sunlight can be a major problem. The dazzling effect of spring sunshine can sometimes make it difficult to keep a clear view of the road ahead, which is vital for safe and responsible driving.
This can be particularly problematic if the roads have been left wet by spring showers, causing the sunlight to reflect off the tarmac and cause even more glare. While there’s only so much you can do to protect against this issue, it’s always a good idea to have a pair of emergency sunglasses in the car.
Traffic
Warmer weather and longer days mean more people heading out on day trips and spring getaways, which unfortunately means more cars on the road and a higher risk of traffic. Again, this is a difficult problem to avoid. Still, it’s always wise to think carefully about the timing of your journeys and to consider alternative routes that might be less congested.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that there could be more pedestrians around as the weather improves, so you should be extra vigilant at road crossings and in built-up residential areas.
Rain
The spring months are known for their changeable weather, and while there’s usually plenty of sun to enjoy at this time of year, there’s also a high chance of rain.
Motorists should always be prepared to change how they drive to suit the conditions. If you’re unlucky enough to be on the road during heavy downpours this spring, keep your distance from other cars, so you have enough time to stop safely on wet roads.
It’s also important to make sure vital parts like your tyres and windscreen wipers are in good working order so you can always drive safely.
With MyService.Expert, you can get calendar alerts for services and MOTs, as well as money off parts and labour to help you keep your vehicle in the best condition, at any time of the year.
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