what's the most dangerous time of year to drive across country?

Question

I'm thinking every season has it's difficulties, i'm just trying to pick which one i'd rather deal with.
Spring= floods and tornadoes
summer=floods and wildfires and it's bad for cars (tires and engine)
fall=possible snowing conditions
winter=extreme snow conditions

I've only done this once before and it was at the end of october through january. I was also younger and now that i'm older i realize i used to put myself in a lot of dangerous and stupid situations.

so what time of year would you guys leave?...and why?

Answer 1

Winter is the worst. There's nothing worse than trying to drive through a blizzard when the roads are icy. Rain and wet roads are better any day and you just have to make sure your car is tuned up and working well in extreme heat.

My bf and I l drove cross country at the beginning of spring from CA. There was snow in some places but it was dying off by then and we were able to avoid all the blizzards if not get the tail end.

I agree with "halsca". I think now during summer is the best time to go. Extreme heat is simpler to deal with than cold conditions. Wildfires can be avoided easier ahead of time. Just make sure your air conditioner works and you stay hydrated.

Answer 2

You are correct, the lesser of the evils. After having traveled 493,000 miles in 4 years, I pick October. Statistically has the least amount of adverse weather than any other month. The fall colors are in bloom and for mechanical purposes it is prime. It's cooler. Simply beautiful. The sunrises in New Mexico are breathtaking. The Southern road is sprinkled with so many colors that the hues literally have you counting the variation of the themes. October is Fall Festival month, so there's plenty of places to stop and enjoy a good meal. You can drive with the windows rolled down. No heat or air conditioning required. The overall cost of traveling is cheaper because you aren't traveling in peak season. It's just excellent for traveling the road. If you stop at amusement parks they are discounted. All sorts of benefits if you plan ahead. You can do something in each state on the cheap. Enjoy. ps AAA also has discount tickets for amusement parks.

Answer 3

I would say the worse time would be close to either the beginning or ending of a season. People will be less prepared for a sudden change in road conditions be it from hot or cold.

I'd say now is good time for a cross country trip, just keep in mind the hazards each area is known for and try and cross desert regions either at night or very early in the day when it cooler. Above all keep checking weather and road conditions before you start each day's journey.

Answer 4

I would go in spring or fall. The weather is more mild and your sites will be beautiful. In spring everything is green and colorful with all the blooms. In fall, colors are changing but the weather is still pretty mild. I don't like summer travel, even with AC, the heat is hard on you, staring at the heat waves coming off the highway and the unrelenting sun in your eyes. Not to mention everybody and their brother is on the roads and road construction causing delays is ongoing. And winter, well, that goes without saying. My husband is a professional driver and he has his hardest times in the summer and winter.

Answer 5

the best month to travel is JUNE -- if you worry about all the bad weather you will never leave your driveway and you won't make that trip that may bring alot of joy to your life .......

Answer 6

Ice, Sleet or snow don't go.Try flying?