After a long winter, most of us spend more time on the road during the spring. While you don’t have to contend with icy conditions or snowy roads, the warmer months do bring heavy rains and other hazards that might result in accidents or frustrating car insurance claims. As the weather starts to warm up, below are a few tips for staying safe on the road.

How to Drive Safe In Spring Weather

1. Choose the Middle Lane

During a storm, water can quickly gather in the gutter and flood the outside lanes. Hitting these pools at even low speed can send plumes of water over the vehicle and splash the car next to you, making it more difficult for you and other drivers to see. You might also hydroplane, which could cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Driving in the middle lane keeps your car as far away from potentially hazardous pools of water as possible.

2. Check Your Windshield Wipers

Many drivers take their windshield wipers for granted, but they do wear down over time. At the beginning of spring, check the rubber on your wipers for cracks or other signs of damage. If they are worn, or if they leave streaks across the windshield, have them replaced as soon as possible.

3. Leave More Distance Between Vehicles

Leaving three seconds between your vehicle and the car in front is usually safe in normal weather. However, if you’re driving in rainy weather, leaving more space will give you a chance to respond to unexpected changes in traffic.

If it’s raining, pick a signpost or other landmark, and start counting when the vehicle in front of you passes it. If you get to the same point before counting to eight, slow down to leave a little more space between vehicles.

4. Be Ready for Potholes

Hitting a pothole at high speed can damage your suspension, bend your wheels, or pop a tire. A comprehensive car insurance policy might cover the cost of repairs, but it's preferable to avoid these headaches in the first place.

Whenever possible, avoid potholes and don’t drive into puddles that could be hiding pavement damage. If you don’t have the room to maneuver, slow down as you approach the pothole, then let go of the brake just as you pass over it. This reduces the force of the impact your vehicle will have to absorb.

Getting the car insurance you need at the best possible price can be difficult, which is why drivers throughout the Charlotte area turn to Larry S. Helms & Associates Insurance Services. Since 1998, their agents have been providing personalized service and developing long-term relationships with each of their clients. Visit their website for more on their wide range of services, or call (704) 893-2793 to request a car insurance quote today.