Seasonal Safe Driving Tips: New Bedford Auto Insurance Policy
The transition time between seasons can be cause for concern when it comes to safe driving on the roadways and in the neighborhoods of the South Coast region. As the snow and ice melt away, drivers are not as cautious and careful as they were during the winter. It is essential to always be aware of your surroundings, including other drivers and road conditions. Anyone who has spent any amount of time in New England knows that a nice spring day can quickly turn back into winter weather with a moment’s notice. Make sure that your vehicle is prepared and that you are properly insured with a Massachusetts auto insurance policy. You can get a free auto insurance policy quote when you contact Borden Insurance Agency in New Bedford.
Post-Winter Maintenance
One way to ensure that your vehicle is prepared for all of the seasonal changes associated with the transition between winter and spring is to perform or get some post-winter maintenance. The winter season can wreak havoc on many different systems within your vehicle. Take time to test the pressure on your tires and check the treads. If you used winter tires, be sure to change them to all-season tires as soon as the temperature warms up, and the snow and ice begin to melt. Winter tires do not offer as much in the way of traction when there is no snow or ice on the ground and can cause damage to local roads and streets if kept on beyond their intended use.
Schedule or perform an oil change and check all of your vehicle’s fluids. If you used a winter windshield wiper fluid to prevent icing and freezing, change it back to an all-season product. Replace your windshield wiper blades – whether you think you need to or not – so they are ready for all the spring showers and storms we anticipate to receive in the local region. While you are at it, take time to test all of your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals in case anything went out in recent months. Consider cleaning your vehicle thoroughly inside and out to remove any lingering de-icing products, mud, slush residue, and debris. Once you are sure that snow days are behind you, go ahead and store your winter trunk gear in the garage until you need it again next year.
Watch Out for Others
One of the most significant risks of springtime driving is that everyone else seems to be out on the road again, as well. Joggers, runners, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and other motorists all want to get back out and enjoy the nice weather. Animals emerging from their winter sleep can also dart out into traffic when you least expect it, so it pays to keep an eye out for anything. Be aware of children playing outdoors in neighborhoods, schools, and near parks. Construction projects and road work will begin again in the spring, so be on the lookout for orange cones and workers. Mind the speed restrictions to avoid getting a ticket or becoming involved in a construction-related accident.
Weather changes can also be a common cause of accidents this time of year. Rainy conditions can result in slippery roads, mud and debris on the roadways, and flash flooding. Consider taking a safe driving course to learn how to drive during inclement weather and what to do if your vehicle hydroplanes. Wet roads can make it difficult to stop – even with great tires and brand new brakes, so take care to give yourself extra room to come to a full stop at traffic lights, stop signs, and pedestrian crossways. Contact your local New Bedford auto insurance provider to learn more tips for safe seasonal driving or to get a new auto insurance policy quote for your vehicles. Borden Insurance Agency in New Bedford has proudly served the South Coast communities since 1909. Give us a call at 508-999-3636 to speak with one of our agents about your current Massachusetts auto insurance policy or to get more information on the latest coverage options for home and auto policies.