Spring conditions bring some new challenges to drivers on the road. As temperatures rise and spring rains begin to fall, it’s especially important to be diligent with your car maintenance and follow specific safe driving tips, such as those listed below.

A Guide to Safe Spring Driving

1. Schedule Tire Car Maintenance

Bring your car into the shop to have your tires inspected. Lower winter temperatures may have cracked their rubber or worn the tread dangerously low, so replace them if needed. Keep them inflated within the PSI range listed on the sidewall, checking these levels every couple of weeks. This will improve your traction on wet roads, prevent you from hydroplaning, maximize your gas mileage.

2. Drive Slow on Wet Roads

Spring rains coat the road, mixing with the oil on the asphalt. This creates a slippery film on the road. When conditions are wet – whether it’s actively raining or the roads are wet after a rain – slow down. Increase your following distance, since the reduced traction may mean it takes longer to stop. Follow the three-second rule: when a driver in front of you passes a stationary landmark, it should take you three seconds to pass that same landmark.

3. Share the Road

The sun brings with it pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists enjoying the warm weather, and they are often more challenging to see than other cars. Double-check for others before making a turn or changing lanes, and give them plenty of space if they are sharing the road with you.

4. Avoid Puddles

Never drive through a deep puddle, since this can severely damage your engine or your brakes. More shallow puddles may spray onto your windshield and affect your visibility. You can also hydroplane on a shallow puddle if you’re moving too quickly, so proceed very slowly if you cannot safely circumnavigate the water.

The mechanics at Superior Imports Ltd. will ensure your car is in pristine condition for spring driving in Burlington, KY. This locally owned and operated auto maintenance shop specializes in imported vehicles and offers a 24 month / 24,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Their ASE-certified technicians have earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® for their reliable car repair. See their full list of services online and call (859) 586-7444 to schedule an appointment with their import auto mechanic.