Drivers need to take precautions to ensure their safety this winter season. Strong snow storms and icy conditions can make driving very dangerous. It is important to review the weather conditions so that you can select the safest possible route to get to your chosen destination.
In addition to being cognizant of potentially inclement weather conditions, you should see that your vehicle is properly equipped, such as by installing snow tires. Other tips for winter driving include making sure your gas tank is full and checking your tires to make sure that they are inflated fully and the tread is at a safe level. Keeping your gas tank full also helps to prevent the gas line from being frozen. A snow brush or scraper should be kept in your vehicle during this season too. What sometimes begins as a cold, sunny day can turn into a snowstorm by the time the work day is over. The III also reminds drivers to check their exhaust pipe. If it is blocked, it can cause carbon monoxide to leak. Drivers should also not warm up their car in the garage for the same reason.
Accidents during the winter driving season are a reality, so it pays to review some tips to make your travels safe. The Insurance Information Institute (III) recommends allowing yourself more time to get to your destination. Icy or snowy conditions make drivers go slower, and visibility concerns are often problematic too. Remember that stopping takes a longer time in these types of conditions. These conditions necessitate 10 seconds or more to completely stop, says the III. So avoid following anyone too closely, slamming on the brakes, or darting in and out of lanes as this can cause a serious accident. Cruise control is also not advised on slippery surfaces, so just switch back to normal driving so you are more in control.
Wintry road hazards also affect bridges and paths that do not get much sunlight. Ice can collect in these places when other roads are not affected, so take extra precautions when travelling on them. Distracted driving can also cause unnecessary accidents in the winter. Avoid using a cellphone, texting, grooming while driving, and other tasks that can take your eyes off the road for even a few seconds – this is all it could take to cause a bad auto accident.
If you are in a serious accident, get medical attention promptly and contact an accident attorney to help you. A skilled auto accident lawyer can uphold your rights against an insurance company that might not want to give you all the compensation you deserve. Catastrophic auto accidents can take lots of medical attention, lost time away from work, and cause other pain and suffering.
Paul Greenberg is a Chicago auto accident lawyer and auto accident attorney with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.
