Snow, sleet, ice. Winter weather conditions can get dangerous quickly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there were 440 fatal crashes and 33,000 crashes resulting in injuries that occurred in wintry conditions in 2019.
Making sure you and your vehicle are prepared for winter driving can help you stay safe on the road. In winter weather, increase your following distance and slow down, especially if the road is slick.
Inspect Your Vehicle
Inspect your tires at least once a month and make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Consider swapping your floor mats for sturdier mats that can withstand winter conditions.
As the weather gets colder, you may find that your vehicle takes more battery power to start, or the driving range might be reduced. Get your battery, charging system (for electric vehicles), belts, and other areas for any repairs or replacements that might be needed.
Check your brake lights, turn signals, flashers, headlights, and interior lights. Refill your windshield wiper fluid with de-icer and replace any worn blades. Make sure you have enough coolant.
Drive Smart
When possible, keep your gas tank close to full. If you drive an electric or hybrid vehicle, plug your vehicle in at night during the winter to prevent your battery from using power to self-heat in lower temperatures.
Before you get on the road, check the road and traffic conditions as well as the weather. Make sure you know how to get where you’re going, even if you plan to use a GPS. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination. If you’re going on a long drive, make sure you build in time to stop and stretch, get something to eat, rest, or change drivers.
Winter car accidents can cause serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
