Three Ways You can Help Prevent a Dangerous Winter Car Accident

As Old Man Winter stretches his legs across the United States, cold temperatures and snowfall begin to appear in the weather forecast. While snow makes for a pretty landscape, it can be deadly for drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 17 percent of all car accidents occur during times when winter weather conditions are present. Wintery roads bring about many dangers to drivers, such as slippery surfaces, snow, wind, black ice, and slush. Though weather conditions are out of drivers’ control, drivers are still responsible for their actions, especially when a traffic accident occurs. Here are a few ways you can be proactive this winter to help you avoid a car accident:

1. Make Sure Your Vehicle is in Good Condition: The first thing you should do when the cold weather rolls around is to perform a maintenance check on your vehicle or take it to a mechanic who can perform a check. It is a good idea to make sure all of your headlights, taillights, and blinkers are working. It is also a good idea to make sure your car battery is in good condition and has a decent charge. Be sure to check the tread on your tires and their air pressure.
2. Stay Alert While Driving: It is important that you are more alert than usual when you are on the road in the winter. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, so it is crucial that your eyes, ears, and mind are all focused on the task at hand. Be aware of other drivers around you and always yield to others, even if you do not have to.
3. Avoid Risky Driving Behaviors: It is also extremely important that you do your best to minimize any risky driving behaviors during the winter months. You should never be texting and driving, but it can be especially dangerous in the winter. Do not speed; the ice and snow can make it difficult to slow down suddenly if a car is stopped in front of you.

Though most people hope for a white Christmas, snow and ice can make for dangerous driving conditions. If you have been injured in a winter-weather car accident, you should immediately contact a knowledgeable Joliet, IL, car accident injury attorney for assistance. At the Law Office of John S. Fotopoulos, P.C., we know how serious car accident injuries can be and we are confident that we can help you get the compensation that you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 708-942-8400.

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Winter Driving Tips

Be Prepared for Winter Driving

When the Chilly Temperatures of Winter set in, will Your Vehicle be Ready for the Cold?