Driving can be treacherous during the winter. A temperature drop can turn a road surface into black ice, putting motorists at risk of car accidents. Even without ice on the road, a snowy or slushy surface can create a potential hazard.
While staying home when the weather is frightful is the best way to keep safe, sometimes you need to be on the road when the conditions are less than ideal. The following are some safety tips, offered by AAA, for driving in winter weather.
Reduce the risk of snow- and ice-related crashes
For Cold Weather
- Make sure your tires are in good shape and are properly inflated.
- Don’t use cruise control when driving on slippery surfaces.
For Snow
- Stay home and avoid taking the risk of driving in the snow.
- If you do need to drive, slow down. You may need to drive well below the speed limit.
- Step on the gas pedal gently and give yourself plenty of space to stop. Decelerate slowly.
- Know your brakes. Use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the pedal.
- Avoid stopping if possible. Let off the gas pedal and slow down as you’re approaching an intersection. If you come to a full stop on snow or ice, you may not be able to get moving. Of course, you may have no choice. Never run a red light or a stop sign.
- Keep your distance. Consider staying several car lengths behind the car in front of you. Rear-end accidents are not unusual on slippery surfaces. They can be avoided if you’re far enough behind the other car.
- Avoid distractions. Distracted driving accidents are common throughout the year, but it’s especially critical to stay focused on the road during difficult conditions in the winter.
- Don’t overreact. If you’re losing control of the car because of snow or ice, don’t slam on the brakes or make big turns with the steering wheel. Take your foot off the gas pedal and gently turn into the spin to regain control.
These are a few tips to reduce the risk of car crashes during the winter. Unfortunately, some drivers take reckless chances on winter roads. They might speed or text and drive when conditions are slick. If they cause an accident, they should be held accountable.
How a Massachusetts car accident attorney can help
After an accident, you may be facing injuries and red tape associated with an insurance claim. The adjuster may offer less than your claim is worth or try to say you did something wrong in the accident. The aftermath of a car wreck can be stressful and frustrating.
We encourage you to contact an experienced winter weather car accident attorney in Massachusetts. Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone today for a free consultation. We can listen to you and help you decide the best course of action.
While we focus on your case, you can focus on your recovery. You only pay us when we win your case. Tell them you mean business and talk to a member of our legal team today.