Spring Driving 2021 – less meh, more hell yeah!

18^th March 2021

Finally, we’re seeing an end to the winter, which has been harsher in lots of different ways.

The sun is peeping through and hanging out for longer, the birds are joyfully chirping their wake-up calls at 5am (much to the annoyance of myself), the air feels lighter. We can practically smell summer coming around the corner.

Hope is on the horizon and brighter times are ahead, literally!

So, now’s the prefect time to come out of hibernation, ready for; sun, fun and a cracking start to this next part of 2021.

1. Clean that baby up!

   Your car, ‘insert name’, (mine is called Cruz), is probably looking a bit dusty and weathered at the moment and I don’t know about you, but, in the last few months I’ve definitely neglected mine.

   So, only seems fair to give it a little spring clean of its own right? Right.

   Don’t forget, due to lockdown, hand car washes are still not running yet.

   Here’s your options:

   • Automatic car wash. Bt watch out for them because some have been known to cause damage
   • You can get a mobile carwash and valet service to come to you... a little more dollaaar, but you get so much more for your money
   • Or get your bucket and sponge out and give it a good scrub

2. Keep a pair of sunnies in the car

   The sun, oh, the glorious sun! It has come out to play and please can it stay?

   Nah, this is Britain innit.

   So, make sure you don’t suddenly get blinded by its rays when driving down the motorway or a beautiful country road, don some sunglasses and keep them in your car, ready.

   Also, while we’re on the subject, top up your windscreen wash and keep that glass sparkly and clear.

3. Cyclists

   If there’s one thing that’s increased during lockdown, it’s the Tour de France taking place down your road every day. But for most drivers, there's a fear of causing a near Tour de Hospital instead.

   Navigating cyclists on a busy road can be very stressful, so we all need to be mindful of each other.

   It's also worth mentioning that more cyclists will be out on the roads even after lockdown, so get stealthy and we can all make the roads a happier place.

5. New horizons

   Hurrah!

   Theory and practical tests are back on, come 12th April (practical ones being 10 days later), and this ties in nicely with spring and lockdown easing.

   So, if you've passed your test and you’re ready to get out there again, be kind to learners. You’ll know how it feels.

   If you’re a learner reading this, just know, we’ve all been there too, so try not to worry too much.

   Also, make sure you’re covered with the right insurance - we can help with that ;).

7. Sun’s out, tunes out

   There’s nothing better than driving with your windows down and that favorite track cranked up, and when the sun comes out there’s a huge impulse to do just that.

   But there’s something to be said about making sure you aren’t breaking the sound barrier and are alert for any potential hazards. As everyone knows, turning your music down also helps you to see better!

   Oh, and make sure the music is good, yeah? I like a bit of 80’s now and then. Don’t @ me.

9. Dripping in finesse

   Turn your car into the badass whip that it knows it can be!

   No, not with a spoiler or eyelashes for the headlights… I’m thinking more maintenance.

   Here’s a few things you can do to make sure your car is spring fresh.

   And don’t forget those all-important safety extras to keep stowed away; Blankets, hi vis jacket, first aid kit, bottle of water, snacks. Packing a spare tyre, locating your wheel locking nut (if you have alloys) and the number for breakdown cover would also be a very good idea.

   Being able to look after yourself and your passengers in a case of emergency is the kind of elite vibe people aspire to, and trust me, it makes a breakdown on the side of the motorway a lot less miserable.

---