Spring is finally on its way and not a moment too soon. Much of the country will be glad to finally say good riddance to Old Man Winter. Whether it was too much snow, sleet or ice, just driving around became a challenge for a lot of people many times this past winter.
But we're not completely in the clear. In addition to mild temperatures, spring brings its own driving hazards — like road construction, rain, mud, fog, black ice, potholes and lots of distractions.
Here are a few cautions to watch out for and some safe driving tips to help steer you clear of danger:
* Always slow down in work zones and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, as well as between you and any construction workers and equipment.
* Slow down in the rain. Water can mix with oil, dirt and grease on the road to create slippery conditions, especially after a dry spell.
* Avoid using cruise control in the rain. If you hydroplane, there's the chance your car could actually accelerate.
* Watch for icy conditions caused by thawing snow, rain or mist, especially on bridges or in shaded areas because these are the first places to refreeze.
* Keep your eyes — and your focus — on the road. There are distractions on and off the road, including people outside walking, bicycling and playing ball — not to mention your cell phone.
* Beware of potholes. Hitting potholes can throw your vehicle's front end out of alignment or damage the tires and/or the metal wheel of your vehicle. Keeping your tires properly inflated can help reduce pothole damage. If hitting a pothole is unavoidable, try slowing down before hitting it. Less severe damage occurs when a tire is rolling than when it is skidding over a hole during braking.
If you would like your front-end alignment checked or your tires rotated, call our service department for an appointment. We're here to help.
