March is a month full of transitions, as we shift back into Daylight Savings Time and shift from winter to spring. The first day of spring is March 20. With this spring equinox, we have changing weather, changing daylight hours, and changing road conditions. As these changes come, here are some tips that help make the seasonal transition feel less jarring and help you to stay safe on spring roads.

Look Out for the Potholes

Potholes are not something specific to spring, but they do seem to be most prominent in spring. They form very easily in winter, due to increased road erosion from rain and snow. With the erosion, potholes easily form, but often still are hidden due to rain and snow. When there are fewer heavy storms, the potholes are more visible and therefore more harmful to cars. If you see a pothole on the road, try to avoid it by safely switching lanes or driving around it. If you are unable to move around the pothole, slow down as you get near it. When driving over the pothole, release the brake pedal. This reduces the impact on your tires from the pothole, making it safer for your vehicle.

Keep an Eye on Your Tire Pressure

Tire pressure fluctuates based on a number of factors, one largely being weather. In colder temperatures, your tires lose pressure and may set off your tire pressure warning system. While spring heats up usually, there can be quite drastic weather changes still. This could continue to effect your tire pressure, so it is important to make sure you keep an eye on your tires and add air as needed to continue to drive safely.

Anticipate Sun in Your Eyes

As we get more daylight hours, sun glare becomes more prominent. Driving during the morning and evening commutes usually means driving with the sun in your eyes, which can cause both eye damage and increase driving risks. Have a pair of UV-protected sunglasses in your vehicle with you or on you at all times if possible. If you do not have sunglasses, use your visor as needed.

Prepare for Busier Roads

Roads become busier as the weather gets nicer. More people tend to be out and about but also animals come out of hibernation and become more active. Animals such as deer, squirrels, and other creatures of wildlife may be out and about more in your area, which means you may see them on or around the road more. Be especially careful when driving in the dark, as they will be harder to see. If an animal is in the road, slow down or stop until it clears the way. However, please do so with caution as sudden slowdowns and stops can cause accidents.

Expect Rain

Spring is usually a pretty rainy season, despite the weather warming up. Have your car ready for rain at any time, as spring rain is usually very unexpected. We suggest you keep an emergency umbrella and jacket in your car in case sudden rain occurs.