Winter Driving Tips

Fall and winter are the worst driving seasons. Slippery, snow-covered road conditions heavily contribute to accidents.

While vehicle crashes can happen at any time of the year, a good portion of those wrecks happen in the fall and winter months. Approximately 21 percent of the over 5,891,000 car accidents that happen nation wide are related to bad weather. Fog, sleet, rain, snow, blowing snow or drifting snow are the major factors in bad weather accidents. Just about 5,000 people die on the road and over 418,000 are injured as a result of bad weather accidents.

Car accident fatalities are lower in the winter, with 18 percent happening due to snow or sleet, 13 percent happening on icy roads and 16 percent transpiring on slushy or snowy pavement.

According to Department of Transportation statistics for 2007 to 2016 there were 156,164 crashes resulting in 41,860 Americans being injured. Snow and slushy conditions caused 186,076 crashes with 42,036 people injured and 496 killed.

Adverse weather conditions should caution drivers to be more alert and careful when driving. During severe weather conditions, it is best to postpone any events and avoid driving. Driving more slowly and responsibly can prevent accidents and fatalities.

Winter driving tips to keep in mind:

• Slow down when facing snow and icy conditions
• Keep a good distance between vehicles
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly to maintain control over vehicle
• Use your brakes with caution – steady pressure for anti-lock brakes and pumping brakes for cars without antilock brakes
• Always make sure your lights are clean and on
• Remove all ice and snow and other debris from your car windows before driving
• Always wear a seatbelt
• Watch carefully for black ice
• Do not ignore weather warnings
• Do not drive distracted
• Do not use cruise control

If you or someone you love suffered serious injuries in an accident during bad weather conditions, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at Hessig & Pohl. Nothing can bring back a loved one after a fatal car accident. Hessig & Pohl understands this and stands behind you and your family in your time of need as they deal with the aftermath of a serious car wreck.

At Hessig & Pohl, we understand the ins and outs of handling winter driving accidents and we take a comprehensive approach to accident investigation, by gathering evidence quickly to support your case. We work with a team of professionals to develop the best strategy to protect your rights and achieve a fair settlement. Call us today at (502) 777-1111.