Springtime New Haven Personal Injury Safety Hazards

Now that winter is gone and springtime is here, different New Haven personal injury hazards will present. You made it through the ice and snow, but springtime has a lot of hazards that could potentially hurt you.

1. Melting and refreezing snow. Melting snow and ice do more than just create potholes and cracks. For example, if you hit a patch of water on the road, you could hydroplane and potentially cause an accident. Or if melted ice refreezes overnight, it could present a much bigger hazard.
2. Emerging wildlife. During the winter, you don’t have to worry too much about animals on the roads. But as the temperatures rise and snow thaws, hibernating animals awaken and leave their homes to feed and explore. This increase in animal activity puts drivers at a greater risk for car accidents-especially because certain animals tend to bolt onto the roads unexpectedly.
3. Cracks and potholes. And iced-over trees, ponds, lakes, and other areas seem like a scene from a movie. But during the spring, these wintertime features are the perfect catalyst for cracked roads, uneven sidewalks, and pothole-filled pavement.
4. Construction. You’ll see construction crews repairing damaged roadways and expanding highways. If you have to drive through a construction zone, drive the speed limit set in that area. You’ll also want to drive more carefully if you have to pass by any workers. Look out for debris on the road as well so you don’t get into an accident or damage your car.
5. Fog. Make sure to turn your fog lights on when it’s foggy outside-even if there are only low levels of fog. Leave yourself plenty of travel time so you can get to your destination safely.
6. Bicyclists. Don’t speed past them in an attempt to avoid them. Driving too fast could cause you to get into an accident, or the passing force could accidentally knock a bicyclist off his or her bike.
7. Flooding. If you’re on the road and see standing water, try to drive around it if you can. The water may be deeper than it appears, and your car could get stuck in the pool of water.

If you or a loved one is ever injured, call the New Haven personal injury lawyers at The LoRicco Law Firm. Our team is committed to serving your needs and have been serving the injured for nearly 60 years.