As the weather turns cold, you may find getting out of your cozy bed in the morning grows increasingly more difficult. Whether you are going to work or running errands, this time of the year can be dangerous for drivers. As such, understanding the most common winter driving dangers you may encounter and how to avoid them can help keep you and others on the road safe this season. If you’re ready to learn, you’ll want to keep reading. Additionally, you’ll discover how motor vehicle accident attorneys can help you recover compensation if hurt due to another negligent driver.
What are the most common winter driving dangers?
One of the most common dangers Pennsylvanians will face when driving during the winter is snow and ice. Though beautiful, the slick material can make driving slippery and dangerous. Additionally, when the snow melts during the day, and the temperatures drop at night, it can cause the water to freeze over, creating black ice. This makes it hard for your tires to get traction, increasing the chance of sliding on the road.
You may also find that the visibility during the winter is often decreased. This is because many drivers do not clear their vehicles before hitting the road, causing additional snow and debris to fall on vehicles behind them. As such, this can make it more difficult for drivers to have a clear view of the road ahead.
How can I stay safe?
If you are worried about traveling during the winter months, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of an accident. It’s critical to understand that during the cold months, you’ll need to give yourself a few extra minutes in the morning to remove snow from your vehicle and frost from your windows. If you are running late, you should not skip this step in favor of getting somewhere on time. It’s better to arrive safely than to take a trip to the hospital.
In terms of black ice, you should keep a safe following distance between yourself and other vehicles and slow your speed. This can help you carefully navigate any slippery spots on the road.
If you are behind another driver who did not clear off their car, you should try to switch lanes to avoid being hit with the snow from their vehicle. If this is not possible, you should put distance between yourself and the car.
What should I do if injured due to another person’s negligence?
Though you may take the necessary steps to avoid sustaining injuries this winter, other drivers may not share the same concern. Unfortunately, if you sustain injury because another driver didn’t clear the snow off their car, defrost their windows, or because a municipality didn’t clear snow from the roads promptly, understanding how to proceed is crucial.
The most important thing you should do if hurt because of another party’s negligence is to consult with an experienced attorney from Friedman Schuman. We understand how frustrating it can be to sustain injuries due to no fault of your own. Our team is dedicated to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you during these challenging times.
