Spring is here, and there's blue skies on the way - well, maybe!

Unlike summer and winter where we have a much better idea of how the weather will be, springtime can be far more unpredictable. While we might be hoping for some warmer weather, showers can catch the best of us unawares.

Here are some top tips for driving in some tricky changeable road conditions:

1. Check your tyres

Important any time of year, ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread. You could consider switching to all-weather tyres, or moving on to summer tyres when the days start warming up.

2. Visibility is key

The winter months ask a lot of our wiper blades and windshield washer fluid, and you might be thinking with sunnier days coming you can get away with letting supplies dwindle. But those notorious spring showers can strike at any time, so you need to be prepared.

3. Are the lights appropriate?

As with the windscreen, headlights are another important aspect of visibility. Don’t forget to turn them on or, if you have daylights, to make sure you’ve got them on the right setting by making the most of low beam and fog lights.

4. Take it easy

Hydroplaning can be an issue during those April showers, so slow down and keep control. It might be sunnier, but if it’s raining heavily you need to increase your following distance to the car in front to allow for longer braking distances.

5. No splashing!

Standing water can catch many drivers out - while others might purposely drive through a big puddle - but this can cause all manner of problems. Water can hide potholes and other hazards which could causes serious damage, not to mention water getting into your engine, so to avoid big bills at the garage or the risk of aquaplaning take it slowly or, if possible, drive around it.

6. Keep in control of cruising

Cruise control is the natural go-to for many of us, but in rainy or wet conditions it can make it more difficult to regain control if you end up skidding. It also reduces reaction time, which is the last thing you need when it's wet and windy. 

7. Don’t ignore the hail

If there’s hail on the way, try to park your vehicle in a covered area – a garage is ideal. Hail might seem innocuous, but it can cause real damage during strong spring showers.

8. Beware the gusts

As with the hail, springtime storms can bring some strong winds that might catch you off-guard. This is especially important if you drive larger vehicles like vans or trucks, where the handling can get tricky and you’ll need to keep a firm grip.

9. Get defensive

Defensive driving means being vigilant for any dangers ahead of time and anticipating potential hazards. This includes watching out for other drivers who may not be adjusting their driving behaviour for the weather conditions.

10. If you need to, just stop

Ultimately, if things get very bad on the roads – visibility, flooding, whatever it might – just pull over and have a coffee.

Yes, you might be on a deadline, or looking forward to getting home from work, but safety has to be your number one priority. It's better to delay and enjoy a break than risk your safety - and everyone else on the road.