Driving during the spring months may seem safer than winter in the Philadelphia region. But it can actually be somewhat worrisome. Spring is a month of fast changes and lots of energy. That leads to new threats on the roads. If you are planning a trip, be vigilant of the risks you could face.
In situations where an accident occurs, and you have serious injuries and financial losses, do not face them on your own. Let our Philadelphia car accident lawyer at Kwartler Manus become your advocate. We help you seek fair compensation for any of the losses you have. Schedule a free consultation with us now.
The Biggest Threats to You on Springtime Roadways
Springtime driving dangers range widely from day to day. In Philadelphia, where the weather is always changing, all drivers must be careful about conditions, other drivers, and even animals on the roads. The following are some of the most common factors that contribute to springtime accidents.
Slick and Dangerous Roads
There’s nothing quite like snowfall and packed ice on roads during the winter, but the spring brings dangerous conditions as well. Those early spring mornings and late nights in Philadelphia can approach freezing, and that creates the perfect conditions for ice patches to develop, especially after a rainstorm.
More so, the rain can mix with the grime, debris, and dirt so commonly found on the roads at this time of the year and create even more dangerous conditions. Watch out for those oil slicks from accidents in over winter that never received proper maintenance.
Fog and Mist
Early mornings are a particular risk for drivers during the spring months. Fog develops very commonly during this time of the year. Moist and warm air that is moving over the cold ground is the most common cause of this in our area. That’s called advection fog, and it can be problematic, especially if there is still snow on the road.
Radiation fog can occur on clear nights, which allows the ground to cool, which then cools the air above it. Rain and steam fog, especially on those hot days, can also contribute to limited visibility in Philadelphia. In all cases, fog means less visibility, and that can translate into dangerous conditions for drivers.
Potholes Everywhere
Another very common problem on Philadelphia's roadways is the sudden appearance of potholes everywhere. Potholes form when moisture freezes and thaws in small cracks in the ground. When that happens, it causes road damage that can ultimately lead to car accidents.
The freezing and thawing cycles that happen so readily during the spring months contribute to this. When there is structural damage to roadways or the potholes are too deep and sharp, they can cause serious damage to your vehicle and increase the risk of crashes. In some situations, the city could be responsible for the damages you suffer in these situations, especially if they knew of the risk and failed to act.
Construction Zones Everywhere
Another new development in many parts of Philadelphia is the construction zones. Some of the most notable of current projects underway in Philadelphia and the surrounding area include:
- I-95 South 30th Street Bridge: This project will narrow traffic to just one lane in June of 2026.
- I-95 Girard Point Bridge: We will also see slowdowns in Southwest Philadelphia as a result of the rehabilitation of this bridge.
- I-95 CAP construction: Watch for detours and road backups resulting from the ramp to I-95 South being closed in this area.
There are dozens of other construction projects planned throughout the city, especially in small neighborhoods and communities. Construction creates risks for drivers because road conditions are limited, drivers are unsure of where they are going, and there is more traffic everywhere.
Sun Glare Concerns
The sun seems to shine a bit brighter in the spring months, and that means that it can be a bit more challenging to see well when you are behind the wheel. That is especially common, for example, at sunrise. If you are heading east into the sunrise or west at the evening, the bright light from the sun can easily create intense glare and limit or even eliminate your ability to see well enough. That puts you at risk for crashes.
More Wildlife
From deer in every residential area to animals that cross highways, wildlife is more active during the spring months than it is during the winter. You are more likely to encounter a brave animal that randomly darts in front of you on the roadway early in the morning or just after dust. That can create a very dangerous road hazard.
Know What to Do When You Are in a Collision
If you are in an accident this spring, always seek the help of an attorney to navigate your rights and pursue fair compensation. Kwartler Manus can provide you with a free consultation to explore your rights. Let our car accident lawyers in Philadelphia help you navigate the springtime accidents that may not have started your year out on the right foot. Contact us now.