Justice For Tiffany ValianteThe Latest »

Winter Weather Driving Tips

Winter is the season for serious car accidents due to frequent inclement weather and ice-covered roadways. Many car crashes occur because drivers do not know how to properly prepare or operate their vehicles in dangerous winter conditions. During a heavy snowstorm, it is best to stay home unless you have no alternative.

Preparedness

It is not unusual for cars to run off the road or become stranded during bad winter weather. Prepare for this possibility by keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle. A proper emergency kit should include:

  • Flashlights
  • Safety flares
  • Water
  • Non-perishable foods
  • Warm clothing or blankets
  • First-aid kits
  • Jumper cables
  • Kitty litter or salt for wheel traction

Do not allow your car to run low on fuel and make certain that the tank is always at least half full. Ensure your phone is always charged, and always make sure that the tires are properly inflated. If there is room in your car, keep a snow shovel in the trunk.

If your vehicle becomes disabled, put on your emergency flashers, and use your cellphone to call for help. Whether the car should be abandoned depends on the situation. If the car is off the road, you should stay with the car until aid arrives. If your car is stuck on the road and you have safety concerns, get yourself to a safe area that is free of traffic.

Clear Ice and Snow

If possible, keep your car in a garage or a protected structure to keep snow and ice off your vehicle. Always keep ice and snow removal items handy, including an ice scraper for your windows, and a broom or brush for light snow removal. In New Jersey, vehicle owners are required to properly remove ice and snow off of their vehicles before they enter the roadways.

Do not start your car prematurely in an enclosed garage or other space to warm the vehicle. Deadly carbon monoxide can spread quickly. Additionally, make sure that snow is removed from the tailpipe when the car is outdoors, this will ensure that gas does not enter the vehicle.

Winter Driving Tips

Always drive slowly in winter weather. Keep the car in front of you at a great distance, and never use cruise control in dangerous weather. Before entering a highway, slow down considerably. Other safety tips include using low beans when it is snowing and taking extra time to accelerate and decelerate. Also, do not power up your vehicle or stop on any hills.

Skidding

Skidding is one of the most common causes of winter driving accidents. Remain calm if skidding occurs and do not accelerate or press on the brakes, slowly take your foot off the gas pedal and move your steering wheel lightly in the direction of the skid. When the car slides into the right direction, the wheel will straighten.

Atlantic City Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Represent Clients Injured in Winter Car Accidents

If you were injured in a winter car crash because of a reckless or negligent driver, you may be eligible to collect damages. Our experienced Atlantic City car accident lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm will protect your rights and help you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries. Contact us online or call us at 609-926-3300 for a free consultation about your case. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.