With the winter weather on the horizon, and already rearing its head in some places, we wanted to take a few minutes to remind you of some tips and steps you can take to help yourself, your loved ones, and the drivers around you safe this season.
Before you prepare for travel during hazardous conditions, always ask yourself if the trip can wait. If it can, the best way to avoid a car accident this winter is simply to stay off the road. If that isn’t feasible, here are some things you can be sure to have in or on your car to help combat the wintry conditions and to assist you in the event you are involved in a car accident:
· Windshield washer fluid and well-maintained wiper blades
· Snow or all season tires that are in good shape
· Emergency flares/cones
· Adequate clothing/coats
· Cellular phone
And some advice on winter-weather savvy maintenance and driving:
· Be sure exhaust pipes are free from ice, snow, or mud
· Keep your gas tank at least half full
· Accelerate and decelerate slowly to keep even traction
· Take your time – every movement behind the wheel, including changing lanes and turning, should be slowed down on wet, snowy, or icy roads.
· Use both the front and rear defrosters to keep windows clear
If you’re stranded in your vehicle after a car crash, use the flashers, a flare, an emergency cone, or a brightly colored piece of fabric on the antennae or closed in the window or door frame so you are more easily spotted by rescue crews.
If you’re in an automobile accident, stay with your vehicle, and call 911. If you are able, take pictures at the accident scene and exchange information with the other driver(s). If you find yourself injured in an accident, contact a car accident attorney and ask for a free consultation. An experienced car accident attorney can help you assess your damages and get you compensation for your losses.
