According to the Federal Highway Administration, weather conditions play a role in one-quarter of auto accidents on U.S. roadways each year. Prominent among them are winter’s snow, sleet, and ice.
Tips For Winter Driving
Drivers should allow greater following distances and drive more slowly in wintry conditions— which doesn’t always happen. Some people are overconfident because they have all-wheel- or four-wheel-drive vehicle. These vehicles improve acceleration in snow, but they don’t shorten stopping distance or help with ice. Also be mindful that a driver can be traveling under the speed limit but still be driving too fast for conditions.
Beware of black ice, which blends in with the roadway. It might also be hiding beneath a coating of snow or in the shade. Ice forms more quickly on bridges and overpasses because they lose heat from both sides, top and bottom.
If venturing out into the snow, clear your entire windshield and side and back windows to improve visibility—not just a few small patches—and turn on your lights. Remove snow accumulation from the roof, hood, and trunk. In some states it’s the law. Flying snow can obscure the vision of a driver behind you or become a deadly projectile.
If you fishtail, don’t panic. Steer toward the direction you want to go. Apply steady pressure to antilock brakes. If you don’t have antilock brakes, lightly pump your brakes.
Remember, winter weather does not absolve drivers of fault in auto accidents. Drivers have a duty to drive responsibly and safely, no matter what the conditions.
Contact A Car Accident Attorney After A Winter Accident
If you are injured as a result of another driver’s negligence, contact Jason Schultz at 405-474-0804 to protect your rights.