Living in the Midwest, we tend to take long, cold, blustery winters in stride for the most part. However, driving in these unpredictable and often severe conditions can be both frightening and dangerous. Every motorist should know the best way to deal with winter road emergencies-before they arise to avoid any car accident injuries. If you or someone you care about is injured in an auto accident, you may want to speak with an experienced Joliet car accident lawyer.
Winter Driving Preparation
As winter approaches, it is a good idea to take your vehicle in to your mechanic and make sure your it is in peak operating condition. This is the time to have your battery checked (and replaced if necessary). An aging battery may get your car going just fine in 75-degree weather, but leave you stranded when the mercury plummets.
Additionally, you will want to get your brakes and tires inspected. It is especially important to make sure your tires are properly inflated, and that all of your tires are the same type. Mixing radial tires with other types of tires can reduce vehicle stability.
Keeping your gas tank at least half-full will help you avoid gas line freeze-up. It is also a good idea to pack blankets, hats, gloves, food, water, and any needed medication in your car if you are driving any long distances during the winter months.
Driving Tips
- Never warm up your vehicle in your garage or any enclosed space.
- Try to avoid using your parking brake in rainy, snowy, and cold weather.
- Never use cruise control on slippery driving surfaces.
- Avoid skids by accelerating and decelerating slowly.
- Drive slowly! Everything takes longer on icy, snow-covered roads.
- Slow down rather than stop whenever possible. It is much more difficult to start moving from a full stop, especially on icy roads.
- Don’t try to power up a hill-applying the gas will just start you wheels spinning. Also, don’t stop while going up a hill. Try to get a bit of inertia going on the flat roadway before you take on the hill.
If You Do Get Stuck
- If you get stuck in the snow, stay with your vehicle.
- Don’t over exert yourself trying to dig or push your vehicle out of the snow.
- Check to make sure your exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow or mud, as this can result in the passenger compartment becoming filled with deadly carbon monoxide gas when the engine is running.
- Conserve gasoline by running the engine just long enough to remove the chill.
- Use whatever materials are available to insulate yourself from the cold, including newspapers, floor mats, or other similar items.
Staying Safe
Following these common-sense driving tips can help you and your family stay safe on the roads during the winter months. Nevertheless, accidents do happen. At Shea Law Group, our team of dedicated legal experts has the knowledge and experience necessary to help you. Reach out to us at (877)-365-0040, or fill out a contact form online today.
