Safe Driving in Winter Weather
Winter weather can make driving unpredictable. Conditions can change quickly, presenting drivers with unexpected hazards. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that 70 percent of Americans live in a region that experiences snow during the winter months, and accidents caused by winter weather can be fatal. The car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr want everyone to stay safe this winter and encourage drivers to keep the following safety tips in mind.
Preparing to Hit the Road
Winter driving safety begins before hitting the road. It is important to give vehicles a thorough check and make sure everything is working properly, including the tires, brakes, battery, ignition, wiring, spark plugs, fluid levels, lights, wipers, hoses and fan belts, and filters. Making sure vehicles are in good condition can help prevent accidents when inclement weather hits. Drivers should also carry emergency items with them, such as a flashlight, shovel, spare tire, sand or cat litter for traction, emergency flairs, blankets, and non-perishable snacks and water.
When planning a trip, be sure to check the weather along your route, especially if the drive is long. In cold weather, it is helpful to warm the car up for a few minutes before setting out, though it is important not to leave the car on in an enclosed space, such as a garage. If there are storms in the forecast, it is best to delay the trip, but this is not always possible. Make sure your gas tank is full in case you should need to make any unexpected stops due to the weather.
Driving Cautiously Prevents Winter Accidents
If it is necessary to be on the road during a storm, or inclement weather strikes during a trip, engaging in safe driving behaviors can help drivers protect themselves and others. Drivers should reduce speeds in case they must make a sudden stop. Do not use cruise control on slippery roads and try to avoid stopping on a hill. If visibility gets too low because of whiteout conditions, pull off the road until they improve.
Slippery road surfaces cause an estimated 116,800 injuries and 1,300 fatalities each year. Taking the time to prepare vehicles and driving safely are both essential steps to prevent fatal accidents. Failing to do so puts other drivers and passengers at risk for serious injury.
New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Advocate for Victims of Reckless Driving
The New Brunswick car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr help accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. We will thoroughly review the facts of your case to determine if negligence was a factor and hold the responsible party accountable. Call us today at 732-537-8570 or contact us online for a free consultation.
With offices conveniently located in Highland Park, New Jersey, we help accident victims in the communities of New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
