Even though it's been a mild winter, February in New England can mean icy roads, poor visibility, and a higher risk of car accidents. But you can decrease the chance of a crash by following some safety tips.
An experienced car accident attorney knows many crashes in the winter occur because a driver was going too fast for the conditions or was distracted by a phone or something else. Speeding and distractions are two common causes of accidents throughout the year, but those two factors can be hazardous when mixed with winter weather conditions.
What are the top winter weather driving tips to prevent accidents?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers advice on how to stay safe behind the wheel during the winter months.
Many car accidents during the winter can be prevented if drivers avoid careless or reckless behavior. Here are tips for driving in the snow:
- Stay home when it’s snowing if you can.
- Slow down and adjust your speed to account for the weather conditions.
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid skids.
- Keep your distance between the car ahead of you; make sure you are about five to six seconds behind the vehicle.
- Don’t crowd a snowplow; use caution if you must pass the truck.
Being a prepared driver is critical during the winter. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure. Check tires at least once a month and before long trips.
Here are other items to check during the winter:
- Batteries: A mechanic can inspect your battery, belts, and charging system.
- Car seats: If you have a small child, ensure the car seat is installed correctly and is suitable for your child’s size and age.
- Floor mats: You may consider installing thick, rubbery floor mats in your car to protect against slush and snow. Ensure the mats are the right size and don’t interfere with accelerating or braking.
- Windshield wipers: You may want to install heavy-duty wiper blades to tackle the New England snow and ice.
- Cooling system: Make sure you have enough coolant. A mechanic can inspect your car to check fluids and ensure the vehicle is ready for winter.
What should I do during an emergency?
If your car stalls out or you get stuck in snow:
- Stay with your vehicle.
- Don’t overexert yourself trying to move the car.
- Use your emergency flashers so your car is seen by other drivers, and keep the interior light on.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning; check that the exhaust pipe is clear of snow, and don’t run your car for long periods while the windows are up or you’re in an enclosed space.
How a winter weather accident lawyer in Massachusetts can help
If you are injured in an accident caused by another driver, contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone to schedule a free consultation. Winter accidents are often caused by negligence and can lead to severe injuries and expensive crash-related bills.
With a lawyer from our firm on your side, you can fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t pay us anything until we obtain a settlement. Tell them you mean business!