With warm weather, turn your thoughts to safety
Motorists should prepare car for season, and pay attention to the many cyclists
British Columbia’s beautiful and famed spring weather is finally upon us and for many, that means an opportunity for a drive up and down the coast or into the Interior to enjoy some of the finest natural scenery found anywhere in the world.
Whether you like to roll down your windows or put your convertible top down, driving in warmer weather is not without its challenges. Stunning views and more seasonal weather means more people hit the road and there are certain conditions that you need to be aware of to ensure driver, passenger and vehicle safety.
Take cyclists, for example. Just like other road users, they love to hit the road as the mercury starts to rise, but they are also increasingly involved in collisions. ICBC data shows an average of 740 cyclists are injured and seven killed in vehicle-related collisions every year between the months of June and September. When cyclists have the right of way, drivers should pay special attention by yielding to them and keeping a safe distance. Cyclists often veer toward the centre of the lane to avoid hitting any obstacles in the road ahead of them. So keep at least one metre between your vehicle and the cyclist.
Make it a habit to check behind you and look in your side-view mirror before opening your door to exit your vehicle, and remind your passengers to do so as well. A collision with a vehicle door takes only a momentary lapse in judgment and may result in severe injury to a cyclist.
The warm weather also means additional maintenance requirements when it comes to driving.
For those who may have been driving on winter tires for the last several months, it’s likely time to remove them as the heat on the roads can cause the tread to wear away very quickly. Obviously, some judgment is required for those who travel through mountain passes where weather can fluctuate.
Also, be sure to check your car’s tire pressure because hot weather will cause the air inside the tires to expand. An expanded tire can lead to an increase in tire temperature causing heat to build up in the tire, the primary reason why tires blow out.
This time of year is the most optimal to get your vehicle ready for spring and summer travel. You may want to replace your engine’s air filter and cabin filter, and after months of accumulating grime and pollen from the winter and spring season, you may want to replace your windshield wipers as well.
Book an appointment for a regular maintenance to ensure any issues that may be looming are addressed before you embark on a journey.
Finally, treat your vehicle to a good wash and wax.
The winter months, and the salt and ice, can take a toll on your vehicle.
Cyclists often veer toward the centre of the lane to avoid hitting any obstacles . ... So keep at least one metre between your vehicle and the cyclist.