Preparation And Prevention Are Key To Winter Driving
Posted on: 19 October 2020
Driving in normal weather requires attention to other drivers, but winter weather brings in additional dangers. While hydroplaning is possible in the rain, you generally can see when the roads are wet. Roads in the winter can become icy and slick, even when it is not snowing. Prevention and preparation are the best ways to drive in the winter.
Prepare for Winter Weather
When you are preparing for winter weather, you will want to perform a full vehicle check. Windshield fluid should be switched to a de-icing liquid and be full at all times. The salt and snow will kick up from other drivers, and you want to make sure you can see clearly at all times. In addition, make sure you have a new battery and all-weather tires on your vehicle. Stopping your car is already harder in the winter, so you want to make sure that tread depth is not an added problem. It is also a wise idea to have a winter kit in your trunk that holds sand, jumper cables, flashlight, ice scraper, shovel, and blankets. Finally, if you are in a new car, consider practicing in an empty lot following a storm to get a feel of how your vehicle responds to the wet pavement.
Prevent an Accident
Prevention is the next step when it comes to driving in inclement weather. Before you get on the road, make sure you know what the weather forecast is for the day. You should also listen to the traffic reports to determine which routes appear to be more congested or dangerous for travel. When you get ready to drive, start early so you can make sure your car is cleaned of all snow and ice. A buildup of snow on your vehicle has the potential to block your vision as you are driving. While driving, you should always make sure everyone is wearing seatbelts and reduce distractions so you can concentrate on the road (as well as pedestrians). Finally, make sure you never use cruise control while driving on icy roads.
Contact a Lawyer
Regardless of how much preventing and preparing you do for winter driving, accidents are common. It is important that if you are involved in an accident in the winter, you follow the procedures law enforcement has in place. If you can drive home, exchange information with the other driver, and then follow up with the police. However, you will always want to make sure you photograph the scene of the accident, take pictures of your car, and document everything exchanged. Finally, it is wise to consult with a personal injury lawyer to make sure you are covered.
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