During winter, drivers must be extra cautious when they hit the road. Factors like low visibility, icy roads, and longer nights in winter increase the odds of traffic accidents. Here at The Nick Schnyder Law Firm, we will provide you with six tips to help you avoid car accidents throughout this season.
Not only will these tips allow you to arrive at your destination safely, but they will also give you peace of mind knowing that you’re taking the right steps to try to keep yourself and others on the road safe during winter.
1. Drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings
Being extra cautious behind the wheel in winter is crucial. The first tip we provide to not be in an accident is to drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings. Take your time driving. Not only are you keeping both you and your passengers safe, but you’ll have more time to spot any potential hazards before reaching them.
2. Keep always a safe distance from other cars
Since it’s hard to brake on snowy and icy roads, you may not have time to control your car from crashing. To reduce the risk of a rear-end collision, you should keep a safe distance by doubling the normal space between vehicles to avoid accidents. You’ll have more time to slow down or stop if necessary. Additionally, Georgia has a “following too closely” law, and you may get a ticket for not obeying it.
3. Remember to use turn signals when changing lanes or turning
It is common sense that if you’re going to change lanes or make a turn, you should have your turn signals on. However, we feel like it’s an important reminder, especially during winter, to let other drivers know what you’re going to do, so they can also be extra cautious.
We recommend that your turn signal stays on for at least three seconds before turning or changing lanes; giving other drivers a chance to react and ensuring your time to turn or change lines safely.
4. Make sure your windshield is clear and free of snow and ice
Our fourth tip to help you avoid traffic accidents is to keep your windshield clear from any debris or snowy precipitation. Visibility is key. Fresh snow can blur your vision just like rain, so if you find yourself caught in a snowstorm, always remember to turn on your windshield wipers as soon as possible.
5. Don’t use your phone while driving – keep both hands on the wheel
No one wants to be involved in a traffic accident, so avoid using your phone while driving. We know that many drivers may be tempted to check their favorite apps on their phones, change music playlists, or reply back to texts, but both hands must remain on the steering wheel at all times when driving, especially in cold weather.
Remember that driving a vehicle requires both hands – and both eyes – to perform all the necessary safety checks on the road and avoid hazardous conditions, such as slippery or icy roads. For your safety, your passengers, and other drivers’ safety, put your phone away until you arrive safely at your destination!
6. Watch out for black ice on the road
A road hazard that only appears in winter and is a silent danger is black ice. Black ice is when a layer of transparent ice melts and gets stuck on surfaces. It’s called black ice because this sheet of ice blends with the same color as asphalt roads, making it difficult to detect from a distance.
To avoid potential accidents, watch out for surfaces that may be icy and reduce your speed. Be especially careful in shadowy areas since there might be an increase in black ice. In the event you were to skid or slide on an icy area, avoid braking sharply, as this could make the situation worse. Instead, focus on calmly regaining control of the vehicle.
We want everyone to be extra cautious and alert while driving in winter since these weather conditions do increase the risk of having a car accident. Keeping these six tips in mind can help you avoid a traffic accident and give you the proper precaution to keep everyone safe on the road. Also, we recommend checking your car before driving.
