Slippery roads can be devastating for drivers in the cold winter months. With an average of 4,900 fatal car crashes per year occurring on slippery roads according to the Federal Highway Administration, it is clear that black ice, heavy snowfall, and uncleared roads are nothing but bad news for motorists. Not only can these crashes cause physical injury, but they can also be financially catastrophic. Medical bills, car damage, and potential funeral costs are just a few of the potential expenses resulting from such an accident.
Winter Weather Car Accident Claims
Pursuing a claim for a weather-related accident comes with a unique set of challenges. Drivers are responsible for avoiding traveling in bad weather or taking precautions if driving, but liability can be complicated when there are multiple parties involved. There are also situations in which poor road conditions could be prevented by proper maintenance, in which case third parties such as a municipality, organization, or maintenance company could be at fault. Determining fault depends on laws in each state, so having a lawyer skilled in Ohio car accident claims can significantly reduce the headache surrounding liability.
Tips for Driving in Snow and Ice
Although staying home is the easiest way to avoid slippery roads, there are AAA recommended tips you can consider to avoid an icy accident.
Drive slowly. Slow down your speed to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight. Keep in mind that it takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
Increase your following distance to five or six seconds. This provides the longer distance needed if you have to suddenly stop.
Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.
Don’t stop if you can avoid it. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.
Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will just make your wheels spin. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.
Don’t stop going up a hill. There’s nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.
Contact an Attorney Today
Slippery roads are an inevitable evil. Having an attorney who practices car accident claims can help ensure that your situation is managed properly. O’Connor, Acciani & Levy are skilled in car accident claims- we understand that the last thing you want to deal with after a car accident is a legal headache. Contact our attorneys today to seek the compensation you deserve.