The Polk County Towards Zero Deaths Coalition along with Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths, Polk County Public Health and the Polk County Wellness Coalition have begun their spring campaign. As most are aware, the thaw has led to roads being underwater and they should be avoided says Polk County Engineer Richard Sanders. “With the thaw, we’re looking at flooded roads,” said Sanders. “Please do not drive through the water because you do not know if the road is still there under the water. The other things that happen in spring are rain and fog. Please be aware of these conditions and make sure your lights are on. If you have your vehicle in automatic light control, turn it to manual control so your taillights come on as well.”
Once we eventually start to warm and up become snow free drivers should still be aware of the possibility of slippery roads as the temperatures still may drop below the freezing point overnight. “Another thing to consider is that you drive carefully as temperatures fluctuate near the freezing mark there may be scattered slippery spots, said Sanders. “Make sure your following distance to the car in front of you is a little bit further because with moist pavement conditions or ice you won’t be able to stop as quickly as you could on dry pavement.”
Other tips include turning on your fan and defroster to keep the inside of your windshield clear of moisture. And avoid driving through large puddles. Splashing water may affect your brakes, cause you to swerve and impair the vision of other motorists. A puddle may also be formed inside a pothole which can puncture tires, bend rims, cause suspension, alignment and even exhaust system damage.
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