Tips for Winter Driving
Many people suffer personal injuries from winter car or truck accidents which could have been avoided if drivers had adjusted for winter road conditions.
The most common mistake – and most frequent cause of winter accidents – is following too closely for the speed of the vehicle.
Tip: On snowy and icy roads, double or even triple your normal “safe following distance.” A car traveling at 50 mph may need 400 to 500 feet or more to come to a stop on snowy and icy roads. To put that in perspective, 400 feet is 100 feet longer than the average American football field.
Tip: If you are in an accident, try to move your car off the roadway and call the police. If your car is well off the roadway, stay in your car. Do not wander in or near traffic lanes. People are often injured when walking around the accident scene – particularly in dark or stormy conditions.
Tip: Use your hazard lights. If stuck, in a crash, or even approaching a crash site, turn on your hazard lights to alert those behind you there is a reason to slow down.
Far too many injuries occur because someone drives too fast for winter road conditions. Adjust your speed and travel below the posted speed limit when winter storms or road surfaces require it.
Good luck and drive safely!
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