Winter conditions make traveling difficult, slow and often dangerous. If you’re traveling in icy conditions, use extra caution to ensure you’re not injured. Our New York accident attorney knows that road conditions in winter months can make driving hazardous, especially in inclement weather.
Adverse weather conditions are thought to be a factor in over 25% of motor vehicle accidents. On highways, weather is a factor in every one out of five fatal accidents.
Here are 10 tips to keep you safe while driving in winter conditions:
- Check to make sure your vehicle is in operating condition before leaving.
- Give special consideration to your tires. Make sure that they’re properly inflated, have tread, and that you haven’t mixed radial with another type.
- Get rest. Avoid driving tired whenever possible because slowed reaction is a hazard.
- Allow extra time to get to your destination and drive slower. Speed is often reduced by 40% on hazardous roadways.
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Give 8-10 second following distance to allow extra time to brake.
- Know your brakes and whether you need to pump them. Slowing down is preferable over stopping because starting from a stop is difficult in winter conditions, especially while going uphill.
- Keep an eye on the weather. Choose a plowed route where you’re likely to be found quickly if you break down.
- Pack winter items (blanket, gloves, jacket, and hat) as well as rations (food and water) in case you’re stranded in your car.
- If you’re stranded, tie a bright colored cloth on your antenna then stay in your car. This increases your odds for being noticed and rescued.
- Don’t use cruise control.
If you’re looking for an accident attorney in the New York area, contact Weiser & Associates at (212) 213-3111 to schedule a consultation today.
