Dangerous road conditions are present in every season, but as the winter approaches, many of these dangerous conditions become more common. It is important to remember that following traffic laws and being alert at all times is the best way to remain safe on the road. However, if you have been injured by another driver, the attorneys at Goldstein and Hayes are here to assist you. They are experienced personal injury attorneys that have the knowledge and skill to help you with your case.
Icy and slick roads can hit at anytime. In 2009-2010, there were 458 deaths on the road that can be attributed to icy conditions, with eight of these occurring in Georgia. Since road conditions are often hard to predict in advance, it is best to keep your car ready for any conditions at all times. Checking the battery, tire treads, and windshield wipers are all things that should be done on a regular basis. In addition to this, keeping your windows clear, putting no-freeze fluid in your washer reservoir, and checking your antifreeze are all things you can do to make sure your car is ready to be safely driven in any weather. Keeping your car stocked with items such as a flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, blankets, and an abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter can be extremely helpful should you encounter problems on the road. Areas where icy and wintery driving conditions are less common can be some of the most dangerous areas when these types of weather hit, as many of the drivers are not prepared or accustomed to driving in these conditions, and thus can make a dangerous condition even more dangerous.
Staying Safe on the Road
Once you are on the road, practicing safe driving habits is the best way to avoid dangerous situations. To make sure you are as safe as possible, some of the best things to do when driving in winter weather include:
Drive with your lights on when in icy conditions. Some cars can easily blend in with their surroundings.
Do not text while driving.
Be sure all vehicle occupants are wearing a properly buckled seatbelt.
If you plan on traveling alone or for a significant distance, let a friend know when you plan to leave, when you plan to arrive, and the route you plan to take.
If you begin to skid, turn the wheel in the direction of the skid.
Know what type of brakes you have, and what they will do - stomp on antilock brakes, pump non-antilock brakes.
Stopping distances are increased on water-covered and ice-covered roads.
On ice, a 4-wheel drive vehicle does not increase safety, it simply provides another two wheels that can spin.
Drive slowly and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Contact Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to an automobile accident or traffic incident, the experienced personal attorneys at Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC are here to help you with your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.