Fatal car crashes increase by 6% the week following daylight savings time, new research from the University of Colorado reveals. The biannual time switch causes sleep deprivation and fatigue, which results in dangerous drowsy driving (similar to drunk driving). Moreover, traffic deaths are also increasing in Toronto with a total of 63 recorded in 2021, up from 46 in 2020 (an increase in careless and dangerous driving is thought to be to blame). Indeed, driving safety in the spring is just as important as it is in the winter. By continuing to take care on the roads, you can keep yourself safe as we move into warmer weather.
Take your car for a spring tune-up
There’s nothing like a harsh Toronto winter to put your car through the wringer. Freezing temperatures, ice, snow, slush, and road salt place a fair share of wear and tear on your vehicle. So, a spring tune-up is essential for getting back out on the roads. If you can’t DIY it, mechanics offer spring-tune up packages which involve inspecting your brakes, suspension, fluid levels, wiper blades, and battery. Rust is another concern, especially for older vehicles, due to road salt in the winter. Any rust spots must also be dealt with to prevent them spreading and causing further damage. Similarly, you may not need to change your winter tires just yet. Winter tires provide extra grip in cold and freezing weather conditions, which you can continue to expect during spring.
Be aware of residual sand
Roads are sanded in the winter to aid car tire grip and make roads safer, however this residual sand can become a hazard in the spring. After the snow and ice melts, residual sand causes slippery roads, which you need to be vigilant of. When you notice leftover sand on the road, be careful to brake earlier and gently to avoid collisions. If you do get into a road accident, it’s important to contact an experienced lawyer to help protect your legal rights. A car crash lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and receive rightful financial compensation.
Look out for potholes
Look out for and avoid potholes, which are reemerging across Toronto after a series of freeze and thaw weather events. In fact, the City of Toronto has already repaired 10,775 potholes in 2022 — down from 20,236 in the same time frame last year. If you do see a pothole, report them on the City of Toronto's website (or by calling 311). Pot holes should be filled within four days of being reported. If your car sustains damage due to a pothole, you can make a claim against the municipality for personal injury or vehicle damage.
Just because there’s no longer snow on the road, doesn’t mean driving is risk free. By taking your car for a tune-up, staying aware of residual sand, and looking out for potholes, you can stay safe on Toronto roads this spring.
