Driving Safely in Bad Weather
The possibility of snow in New England has already appeared in the forecast, and evening temperatures have slipped below freezing. Here in Massachusetts, winter is upon us. There may be times when you can’t avoid driving, so here is some guidance for driving safely in bad weather.
Inclement weather can consist of rain, snow, sleet, and/or fog, and can cause wet, icy, slushy, or snowy road conditions. With the impending holidays and the new year, you may have many social and family obligations you’re excited to attend. It can be tempting to drive in compromising weather but think twice before you venture out on compromised roads.
Each year roughly 21% of auto accidents in the US are due to bad weather. That’s over 1.2 million, resulting in 5000 deaths and over 400,000 injuries.
How to Prepare for Driving in Bad Weather
● Follow the weather report for a day or two before you’re supposed to travel.
● Listen to city and state officials. If they declare a weather emergency and advise you to stay home, please listen to them.
● Re-evaluate your priorities. Yes, you might miss a party, but you can plan to see loved ones, friends, and colleagues on another day.
● Weather can change quickly, so have a plan B. Confirm ahead of time that there is someplace you can stay if you can’t get back home.
What Happens if You Have an Accident?
Just like you would with an accident in good weather, call an ambulance if someone is hurt. Depending on where you live, you might want to contact the police. They can provide a police report and get a tow truck to the scene if necessary.
The tricky part is knowing who is at fault when you have an accident in bad weather. Things that are illegal in good weather still apply - drunk driving, speeding, driving to endanger, texting and driving, or going through a red light or stop sign. If the other driver was doing any of those things, then it’s clear that they are at fault.
But when an accident is caused by inclement weather, it’s not always clear who’s at fault, and it can be difficult to get compensated for your damages.
Many times these accidents are caused by drivers who don’t know how to adjust their driving in snow or rain. And then there are times when an accident in bad weather just can’t be helped by anyone involved. In some cases, the accident is unavoidable and there is no one to blame, but you might still have the right to be compensated. Speed is usually always a factor as you must adjust your driving to fit the conditions.
Tips for Driving in Bad Weather
Be proactive, not reactive. Try to anticipate what other drivers might do. Keep your windshield clear, and stay a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Stay focused. Please – no multi-tasking! Put your phone out of reach, turn down the radio volume, and limit your conversation with passengers. Don’t use cruise control.
Use your brakes defensively. Slamming on the brakes is dangerous in bad weather. Pump the brakes, or start to brake ahead of time.
Slow and steady wins the race. When driving in the snow around curves or up hills, lighten up on that gas pedal.
Maintain your gas level. The more space there is in your gas tank, the higher the chance of frozen condensation in your gas line. So keep your tank as full as possible.
Non-negotiables. Do not drive on untreated roads. Ice can build up quickly, and can be hiding under snow. New drivers should not drive in inclement weather.
Be Prepared for an Emergency:
● Keep spare gloves, a hat, a scarf, and even a blanket in your vehicle in case you get stuck
● Have your phone charged
● Keep flares in your trunk
● Have a first-aid kit
At Attorneys Jim and Steve Brady & Associates, PC in Walpole, MA we are well-versed in the rules of the road and how to handle accident cases dealing with inclement weather. We have helped numerous clients get the compensation they deserved for incurred damages from an accident in bad weather.
You can contact us today to schedule a consultation.