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Spring Driving: Navigating Hazards and Staying Safe on the Road

Originally published in Fleet Management Weekly 3/6/24

By Sarah Bechtold, eDriving

March 6, 2024

As the winter frost melts away and nature awakens, spring brings a refreshing change to the driving landscape. Yet, with this transition comes a unique set of challenges that fleet managers and drivers must navigate with caution. From bustling traffic to unpredictable weather shifts and ongoing or new/seasonal road construction, the spring season demands heightened awareness and proactive safety measures behind the wheel.

Increased Traffic, Heightened Vigilance
With warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, spring heralds an uptick in traffic on roads and highways across the country. As fleet managers, it’s crucial to remind drivers of the importance of maintaining focus and vigilance amidst the hustle and bustle of congested streets.

Encourage your drivers to:

  1. Plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys to accommodate potential delays.
  2. Practice patience and avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating and sudden lane changes.
  3. Stay attentive to surroundings, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles sharing the road.
  4. Utilize navigation apps to identify alternative routes and bypass heavily congested areas whenever possible.

Unpredictable Weather: Be Prepared, Stay Safe
Spring weather is notorious for its unpredictability, with sunny skies giving way to sudden downpours and gusty winds. Such conditions can pose significant challenges for even the most seasoned drivers. As fleet managers, it’s essential to equip your drivers with the knowledge and tools needed to adapt to changing weather patterns responsibly.

Here’s how drivers can prepare for spring weather hazards:

  1. Monitor weather forecasts before embarking on journeys and stay informed about potential storms or adverse conditions along the route.
  2. Ensure vehicles are equipped with properly inflated tires, functional windshield wipers, and adequate tread depth for optimal traction on wet or slippery surfaces.
  3. Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles and reduce speed when encountering rain, fog, or reduced visibility.
  4. Remind drivers to exercise caution when navigating through puddles or standing water, as hydroplaning poses a serious risk of loss of control.

Navigating Road Construction: Patience and Adaptability
As the snow thaws and temperatures rise, road construction projects spring into action, bringing temporary detours, lane closures, and traffic diversions. While these infrastructure improvements are essential for safer and more efficient travel in the long run, they can present challenges and disruptions for drivers in the short term.

Here are some tips for navigating road construction zones safely:

  1. Stay informed about ongoing construction projects and road closures by checking local traffic reports and official transportation websites.
  2. Follow posted signage and adhere to reduced speed limits within construction zones to protect both workers and fellow motorists.
  3. Exercise caution when merging into narrow lanes or navigating uneven surfaces and be prepared for sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
  4. Maintain a safe distance from construction vehicles and equipment to minimize the risk of accidents or debris-related damage.

As we embrace the arrival of spring and all its wonders, let’s not forget the importance of prioritizing safety on the road. By recognizing and preparing for common spring driving hazards, fleet managers and drivers alike can ensure smoother journeys and safer travel for all.

At eDriving, we understand the unique challenges that come with each season’s transition. That’s why we offer a comprehensive suite of resources and tools designed to support your fleet’s safety initiatives year-round. From targeted training programs to a wealth of educational materials available at our digital Resource Center, eDriving empowers drivers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate springtime hazards confidently and responsibly.

Together, let’s make this spring season a time for growth, renewal, and above all, safe travels on the open road.