The onset of winter means it is time to think about how you can make your daily commute safer. Most winter car accidents are due to inexperience and unpreparedness on the part of the driver. Below are some things you can do to prevent car accidents while driving in ice and snow. If you are a Tennessee driver who has been injured in a winter car accident, you may benefit from speaking with a personal injury attorney for advice.
Winter is no time to be driving with tires that need to be replaced. Before the first snowfall, be sure to take a hard look at your tires to determine if they are safe. Check for wear and tear, good tread is a must for safe winter driving. Be sure your tire pressure is adequate, as well. Most dealerships will check it for you or you can buy a gauge and check it once a month yourself.
Black ice can send you careening out of control in an instant, so it is important to be careful in areas it may occur. Shady areas, underpasses and bridges are all places black ice may develop, so slow down when driving through these areas.
When driving in icy conditions, reducing your speed is the best way to avoid disaster. When roads are icy, you are going to have trouble stopping if you are going too fast. Professionals recommend keeping your vehicle speed at 45 mph or less when ice and snow are present. If you feel your car sliding or fishtailing, you are going too fast for the current weather conditions.
Improper braking is one of the leading causes of drivers losing control in winter weather conditions. Be sure to apply your brakes easily, to avoid sliding out of control. Most vehicles have anti-lock breaking systems that are not compatible with ice and snow.
If you find yourself in an accident this winter, there are things you can do to minimize the damage to your vehicle and reduce injury. Winter accidents caused by black ice, often happen to many people in a short period of time. For this reason, drive away from the accident to a safe place before pulling over, if possible. If your car is disabled, stay inside the vehicle while waiting for help to arrive. You run the risk of being injured or killed by other drivers who lose control on the same patch of road where your accident occurred.
While being involved in a winter accident can be stressful, there are ways to make the best of the situation. If you are injured in a Tennessee car accident at the hands of another driver, contact a personal injury attorney for help. During a consultation, an attorney will examine your case and give you ways to move forward. Having an experienced attorney to protect your interest can make navigating the legal system less difficult for you and your loved ones.
