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Most Common Accidents That Occur in Spring

These Road Hazards Increase in Spring

According to Science Daily, a 2020 study conducted by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that over 22 years of recorded data, fatal car accidents spiked by 6% in the week following “spring forward” to daylight saving time. One of the common reasons found for this spike is due to lack of sleep and driving to work in darkness. However, daylight savings week is just one example of why springtime accidents increase. The milder weather brings a surge in outdoor activities such as road construction, bicycling, walking, and motorcycle riding — and that means sharing the road with motorists. Read on to learn more about the most common types of accidents this time of year and how to stay safe.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders are particularly susceptible to accidents during springtime due to increased traffic as well as negligent drivers. Some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents are:

  • Collisions with open car doors
  • Speeding drivers
  • Distracted drivers
  • Poor road conditions
  • Cars switching lanes
  • Cars making sudden stops
  • Drivers making left-hand turns
  • Drivers making rolling stops, running stop signs or red lights

To reduce your risk of personal injury should an accident occur while riding a motorcycle, always wear a helmet and protective clothing and ensure your vehicle is maintained adequately before heading out on the road. Additionally, riding defensively and watching out for reckless and distracted drivers is key.

Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists also face an increased risk of bicycle accidents in the early spring months due to increased traffic on the roads. The most common reasons bicycle accidents happen are due to:

  • Distracted drivers
  • Impaired drivers
  • Speeding drivers
  • Drivers weaving through traffic
  • Drivers making unsafe lane changes
  • Drivers running stop signs or red lights
  • Drivers making left-hand turns
  • Drivers making rolling stops, running stop signs or red lights
  • Poor road conditions

As with motorcycle riders, bicyclists should always wear helmets and other protective gear. It’s also essential for cyclists to know their rights when sharing the road with cars—for example, they should always maintain a predictable riding pattern and use hand signals when turning or stopping. They should also use sidewalks when available or ride slowly if there isn’t one available.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian safety should always be a top priority during any season, especially during springtime, as pedestrians are at even greater risk for injury due to distracted drivers who may not be expecting them on the roads at this time of year. In addition to distracted drivers, some of the top reasons for pedestrian crashes are:

  • Unmarked crosswalks
  • Drivers making left-hand turns
  • Distracted drivers
  • Impaired drivers
  • Drivers making rolling stops, running stop signs or red lights
  • Drivers speeding through school zones
  • Poor road conditions

Pedestrians should ensure they are visible by wearing bright colors or reflective gear at night and crossing only at marked crosswalks whenever possible. Pedestrians should also pay close attention to their surroundings while walking near roads or intersections, as drivers may not expect them around these areas either.

Road Construction Accidents

Due to the nature of their job, road construction workers often face a high risk of becoming involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. This is primarily because working on roadsides and intersections is particularly hazardous. Some of the top reasons why road construction workers are at higher risk of being involved in a crash with a motor vehicle are:

  • Impatient drivers not heeding construction zone signs
  • Speeding drivers
  • Distracted drivers
  • Poor road conditions

In addition to the above, construction workers may not always be easily visible to passing motorists. It’s critical for construction workers to be provided with the proper protective gear when dealing with motor vehicles in their environment.

Remain Vigilant About Safety

While it’s exciting to get outside in warmer weather, it’s crucial for all types of people—motorcyclists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and construction workers—to remain vigilant about staying safe on the roads this season by following the best practices for avoiding accidents such as wearing protective gear like helmets or reflective clothing when necessary; following local traffic laws; crossing only at marked crosswalks; maintaining vehicles; using proper safety equipment; and paying attention to their surroundings at all times. With these tips, you can ensure you enjoy your time outside safely this season!