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Tips for Safe Winter Driving

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at 844SeeMike.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

The U.S. Department of Transportation studied over 1.3 million auto accidents between 2002 and 2012 and found that inclement weather caused about 23% of all accidents, 20% of all accident-related injuries, and 17% of all accident-related deaths. In order of highest to lowest percentage, the culprits of these accidents were: wet pavement, rain, snow/sleet, and icy pavement. Wet pavement, in particular, contributed to 80% of all weather-related accidents involving injuries and 77% of weather-related accident fatalities.

With the snow and freezing cold of winter approaching, drivers must be prepared for inclement weather, including rain, snow, and ice on the roads. Winter can be a dangerous time for motorists due to the storms and what they leave behind, especially in high-traffic areas and at busy times of day, so here are some important tips to help you stay safe and minimize these risks.

When driving on wet or icy pavement:

  • Slow down – There is a loss of traction on wet pavement between the road and your tires, and maintaining a safe speed, as well as a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead, is your only true defense.
  • Traction control – If your vehicle includes traction control, this is a helpful feature to use during the winter months. This helps maintain balanced speed by lightly applying brakes when one wheel is moving faster than another.
  • Avoid standing water – Avoid hitting large puddles and pockets of water in the road, as it may result in hydroplaning or loss of control.

When driving in rain or snow:

  • Windshield wipers – Always make sure your windshield wipers, including both the brake and motors, are working properly. If you’ve just installed brand-new blades, make sure they and the motor are fully functional before going out on the road. If you hear any clicking or grinding while the wipers are on, it may be a problem with the motor.
  • Use defrost – Rain is usually accompanied by a shift in air temperature which can fog your windshield. Use the defrost feature to avoid impaired vision.
  • Try to distribute weight evenly – This does not refer to passengers in the vehicle, but rather how the vehicle operates. If you have rear-wheel drive, weigh down the vehicle’s rear end as best you can. Failing to do so can result in lost or inconsistent traction which could lead to an accident.
  • Purchase snow tires – If you are skeptical of your tires’ performance in winter weather, consider purchasing snow tires for this time of year. As the name implies, snow tires are meant to provide maximum traction on wet and icy pavement and can be an excellent investment if they’re cared for properly over the years.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.

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