Tips for Preventing Winter Auto Accidents

Slippery roads, freezing temperatures, and poor visibility all increase the risk of road accidents during the winter season. Take care so that the conditions do not make you cause an accident this winter. Below are some tips to help you avoid winter auto accidents.

Winterize the Car

Weather affects your car's operations and safety. Thus, prepare your car to deal with the harsh weather of winter. The following measures can help.

Install Winter Tires

Your car's safe handling requires adequate grip between the tires and the road. You might lose control of your car and cause an accident if the tires do not have adequate traction.

Winter precipitation with snow and ice can reduce your tire's traction on the road. The effect is even greater if you have the wrong tires on the car. Switch to the right tires, preferably winter tires, for better traction. If you use all-season tires, ensure they have adequate tread for safety.

Check the Tire Pressure

Temperature affects tire pressure. Thus, confirm the tire pressure when the weather drops. Inflate the tires if necessary. Poor tire inflation risks damage and loss of car control, leading to an accident.

Clear Snow and Ice

Ensure your windshield is always clear to maintain good visibility. Otherwise, you might not see road obstacles or dangers in time to avoid accidents. For example, install heavy winter wipers that cannot collect ice on their blades. Also, defrost to get rid of condensation that can also block your view of the road.

Drive Carefully

In addition to car preparation, drive more carefully during the winter season. Below are some safety tips for winter driving.

Slow Down

The risk of skidding increases if the road surface is slippery. The combination of high speed and slippery surfaces increases the risk even further. If you want to get somewhere early, leave early so that you do not have to speed.

Increase the Following Distance

Motorists usually need more time and distance to stop if the road is slippery. That means you should increase the distance between you and the car in front. That way, you will not rear-end the car in front should its driver slow down or stop for an emergency.

Avoid Abrupt Movements

Abrupt movements, such as fast acceleration, deceleration, and swerving the car, are also risky if the ground is slippery. Ensure every movement is slow and deliberate. That way, you can maintain control of your car in all situations, even if it begins to skid.

Don't Use Cruise Control

Cruise control makes driving less tiresome but can be dangerous in winter conditions. Maintain full control of your car so that you can execute emergency maneuvers if the situation calls for one. The extra time you might need to switch from cruise to manual control of the car can result in an accident.

Know What to Expect

Plan your route every time you want to drive during the winter. Know what the weather forecast is, and plan with the forecasted weather in mind. For example, know whether the temperature might drop below freezing point or whether storms might blow across your path.

Also, plan adequate time for your trip if you know what to expect in terms of weather. That way, you will not have to speed to reach your destination in time. You might lose control of your car if you drive too fast during the winter.

If you are involved in a winter car crash, get medical care, get witnesses' details, and contact Walsh & Associates, PC. We will evaluate the circumstances of the crash and help you pursue the damages you need.