Why spring driving requires extra caution
Spring brings milder temperatures and longer days - but also new challenges for anyone driving in Ireland. Changeable weather, low sun, more vulnerable road users and increased wildlife activity all affect safety. With our 10 best tips for safe driving in spring, you’ll be better prepared for these risks and safer on Irish roads.
1. Change tyres and check them thoroughly
Winter tyres are rare in Ireland, but many people still drive on worn or mismatched tyres into spring. As temperatures rise above about 7°C, tyres with the correct compound and tread depth give you shorter braking distances and better grip, especially on wet roads, which are common here. The legal minimum tread depth in Ireland is 1.6 mm, but motoring organisations recommend at least 3 mm for safer braking in the wet. Under‑ or over‑inflated tyres increase fuel use, wear faster and reduce grip, so it’s important to check pressure and condition at least once a month and before long journeys. If you do use winter tyres, for example if you drive frequently in higher or rural areas, switch back to summer tyres in spring to avoid longer braking distances and excessive wear in warmer conditions.
2. Clean the vehicle thoroughly
Irish roads in winter mean mud, grit and salt, especially on motorways and national routes treated in cold weather, and these can cause corrosion over time. A thorough spring clean helps protect your vehicle and improves safety. Use a car wash that includes an underbody wash to remove salt and dirt from the chassis and wheel arches. Clean headlights, rear lights and indicators so you can see and be seen clearly in rain and at dusk. Make sure windows are cleaned inside and out, as a film on the inside of the windscreen greatly increases glare from low sun and oncoming headlights. Inside the car, vacuum mats and seats, clear clutter and wipe down dashboards. A clean, tidy cabin supports concentration and stops loose items becoming projectiles in a sudden stop.
3. Check wipers and fluids
In Ireland, spring still brings plenty of rain, along with insects and tree pollen, so your wipers and washer system are critical for good visibility. Winter conditions such as frost, ice and scraping damage wiper rubber, and worn blades leave streaks, judder or miss areas of the glass. If you notice any of these signs, replace the wiper blades. Keep the washer reservoir topped up with a good quality screenwash that removes road film and insect remains, not just water, and don’t forget the rear wiper if your vehicle has one. Clear vision through all windows is essential on narrow, unlit rural routes and in sudden showers.
4. Carry out a brake check
Wet, dirty winter roads can lead to rust on brake discs and extra wear on pads, which may reduce braking performance just as traffic volumes increase in spring. In a safe, quiet area, carry out a simple test by braking firmly from a moderate speed and paying attention to how the car behaves. If the vehicle pulls to one side, the pedal or steering wheel vibrates, or you hear unusual noises such as squealing or grinding, have the brakes checked by a professional as soon as possible. Warning signs like longer stopping distances, a “spongy” pedal or dashboard warning lights should never be ignored. Follow your manufacturer’s service schedule and remember that while the NCT checks brakes, you should not wait for the test if you notice any issues. Only a fully functioning brake system gives you the stopping power you need on wet or uneven Irish roads.
5. Beware of potholes and road damage
After winter, potholes and surface damage increase on many Irish roads, especially rural and secondary routes. Hitting a pothole at speed can damage tyres, rims, suspension and steering, and in some cases cause loss of control. To reduce the risk, slow down on unfamiliar or poorly lit roads and increase the distance from the vehicle in front so you can see and react to defects in time. Avoid sudden swerves, as these can be more dangerous than driving over a small defect, particularly if there is oncoming traffic or a soft verge. If you encounter serious potholes or road damage, report them to your local authority in the Republic of Ireland or to the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. This helps protect other road users and supports safer roads for everyone.
6. Keep your distance and adjust your speed
In spring, traffic volumes increase and more people are out walking, cycling and riding motorbikes, which changes the risk on the road. Cyclists, motorcyclists, horse riders and pedestrians are more common on Irish roads in spring and summer, especially on rural and coastal routes. At the same time, sudden showers, hail or cold snaps can make surfaces slippery. Keeping a safe following distance gives you more time to react; aim for at least two seconds in dry conditions and more in the wet. Reduce your speed in built‑up areas, near schools, parks and shops, and be extra cautious at junctions and roundabouts, where many collisions occur. Anticipatory driving – looking further ahead, reading the traffic and planning your actions – is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents.
7. Watch out for wildlife and farm animals
In Ireland, wildlife and farm animals are a real spring hazard, particularly at dawn and dusk. Deer, foxes, badgers and other animals are more active in spring, and deer are a particular risk in forested areas and near national parks. On rural roads, you may also encounter sheep or cattle being moved between fields, or animals that have escaped. When you see warning signs for animals or deer, reduce your speed and stay alert, especially in low light. If an animal runs out in front of you, brake firmly in a straight line rather than swerving into oncoming traffic or off the road, as evasive manoeuvres often lead to more serious collisions. After a collision with a large animal, secure the scene as best you can and contact the Gardaí, or the PSNI in Northern Ireland, so the incident can be managed safely.
8. Take the risk of glare from low sun seriously
In Ireland, the sun can be very low on the horizon during morning and evening commutes in spring, especially on east–west routes, and this low sun can cause dangerous glare. When bright sunlight reflects off a wet or dirty windscreen, it can almost blind you for a few seconds, which is enough to miss a pedestrian, cyclist or braking vehicle. To manage this risk, keep a good pair of sunglasses in the car and use the sun visor correctly. Make sure the windscreen is spotless inside and out, as even light smears can multiply glare. When you are dazzled, slow down and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react. If visibility is badly affected, it is safer to reduce speed significantly or pull over in a safe place until conditions improve.
9. Increase attention to others
With better weather, more people walk, run, cycle and ride motorbikes, especially in towns, tourist areas and along coastal or scenic routes, and this requires extra attention from drivers. Cyclists and motorcyclists can be harder to see because of their narrow profile, so check mirrors and blind spots carefully before changing lane or turning. When overtaking cyclists, follow the guidance in the Rules of the Road and give at least one metre clearance in lower speed zones and 1.5 metres at higher speeds. Watch for pedestrians crossing between parked cars, particularly children, and slow down near schools, bus stops and busy town centres. E‑bikes and e‑scooters are also becoming more common and can approach faster than expected. Patient, considerate driving is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious injuries.
10. Manage allergies – check your cabin (pollen) filter
Spring in Ireland brings high levels of pollen from trees and grass, and for drivers with hay fever this can be a real safety issue. Symptoms such as watery eyes, sneezing and reduced concentration can make driving more dangerous, especially on fast or busy roads. Most modern cars have a cabin or pollen filter that helps keep pollen and dust out of the interior, and this filter should be replaced at least once a year or sooner if you notice musty smells, misting or reduced airflow. Keeping windows closed during high pollen periods and using the car’s ventilation system helps reduce pollen inside the vehicle. Regular cleaning and vacuuming of the interior further lowers dust and pollen levels. If your allergies are severe, speak to a doctor about suitable non‑drowsy medication before driving so that your reactions and concentration are not impaired.
Final thoughts
Safe spring driving in Ireland is all about awareness, preparation and adapting to changing conditions. By maintaining your vehicle, adjusting your driving habits and staying alert to seasonal risks, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. A little extra care goes a long way - helping to protect not just yourself, but everyone sharing the road.
About the author: Stephen Hardiman is Health & Safety Manager at Securitas Ireland, focusing on creating safe, compliant environments for clients and employees alike. He is passionate about promoting a proactive safety culture and supporting businesses in managing risk effectively.