Five Tips to Avoid Winter Driving Accidents

 Posted on December 29, 2017 in Personal Injury

Driving during the winter months can be dangerous. The snow and ice paired with heavy holiday traffic can make it more difficult for you to stay safe behind the wheel. If you would like to reduce your risk of getting into a winter driving accident and keep yourself as well as other drivers safe all winter long, be sure to follow these five tips.

1. Inspect Your Vehicle

If you haven’t already done so, you should thoroughly inspect your vehicle to make sure that it can handle the harsh winter weather. During your inspection, check your tire pressure, windshield wipers, and fluids. It is a good idea to invest in winter tires and take your vehicle to a mechanic for a professional inspection if you do not feel confident inspecting yourself.

2. Always Adhere to the Speed Limit

Although you should always avoid speeding, doing so is especially important during the winter. Speeding while it’s snowing, sleeting, or icy can lead to a serious accident. Give yourself some extra time when you are driving to work, an appointment, or another destination that requires you to be on time.

3. Keep Your Distance

Even if you have winter tires, your traction decreases and braking distance increases on slippery roads. That being said, keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you at all times so that you have enough room to suddenly stop if necessary.

4. Use Your Headlights

You should use your headlights during the day as well as at night. Since winter weather often comes with gray skies and poor visibility caused by rain and snow, your headlights can increase the chances of other vehicles seeing you. They can also make it easier for you to see any hazards in your path.

5. Stay at Home

While it is inconvenient to stay at home and miss out on an event due to a serious snowstorm, it is better to remain safe than risk getting into an accident. If you are already driving during a storm and cannot see or are losing control of your vehicle, find a safe spot to stop and wait until the storm passes.

Consult Our Hinsdale Car Accident Lawyers

In the event you get into a winter car accident, you should reach out to our experienced DuPage County car accident lawyers today at 630-920-8855. We can help you determine liability and ensure your rights are protected.

Sources:

http://www.womansday.com/life/travel-tips/g2868/5-ways-to-avoid-getting-into-an-accident-this-winter/