Ice and snow covered roads are a fact of life in the winter months of the Midwest. Knowing how to safely drive on icy, snow-packed roads is extremely important in this region. According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 115,000 people are injured and over 1,300 deaths are a result of accidents on icy, snow-packed roads in the United States every year. Today, the car accident attorneys at Tolbert Beadle, LLC would like to provide you with some tips that can help to keep you safe while traversing dangerous roads in the winter months.
Avoiding Accidents When Driving in Snowy Conditions
- Slow Down – Snow and ice on the road can prevent you from identifying slick spots, especially at higher speeds. One of the most dangerous aspects of winter-related driving is driving over “black ice” or ice that is invisible to the driver. Slowing to speeds as low as 15 miles per hour can help you to identify dangerous spots and remain in control of your vehicle when traveling over them.
- Maintain Vehicle Conditions – Making certain that your vehicle is road ready and prepared for winter conditions can make all the difference when traveling over winter roads. Verify that you have enough tread on your tires before driving in snow and ice. If possible, upgrade your tires in the winter months to snow tires or all-weather tires to increase traction.
- Clear Your Vehicle – Before you pull out of your parking spot make sure that you clear all the snow and ice from your vehicle to increase visibility. Brush snow from your hood and roof to prevent your vehicle from blocking your vision after you begin driving. Also, make sure your windshield wipers are cleared from precipitation and in good condition for the winter months. Removing your potential liability in the case of winter accidents is one of the most important legal tips Tolbert Beadle, LLC can recommend.
- Steady Braking – When you need to slow down or come to a stop in winter conditions it is imperative that you slowly apply your brakes. Slamming the brakes while on ice will nearly always cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
- Remain Calm – If you do happen to lose control of your vehicle and begin to slip or spin, try to remain calm and remember to turn your wheel into the skid or spin. It can be a good idea to remove your foot from the brake and gas pedals as well. Honk your horn to alert other drivers or pedestrians of the danger you may pose them.
- After Car Crash – If you do crash your vehicle remain calm and assess yourself for injury. Contact emergency services to come to your aid as quickly as you safely can. If your vehicle is out of the way of further damage and you have contacted help, you should contact an attorney like Tolbert Beadle, LLC to legally and financially protect you.
Tolbert Beadle, LLC Will Protect You After An Accident
Tolbert Beadle, LLC has the experience and success to provide you with the best possible legal representation. You may be eligible for legal compensation in case of a winter-related accident. Tolbert Beadle, LLC can also help to protect you from the insurance company that will handle your case. We will make sure to get you the legal protection necessary for your case. Call us at 1-800-887-4030 to speak with our office toll-free today.
