The Main Hazards That Drivers Face in the Winter and How to Avoid Them
Winter brings snow, ice, sleet, and other dangerous weather conditions. Navigating busy city streets during winter is challenging. Many drivers run traffic lights, speed, and engage in other careless behavior despite hazardous roadways. These actions increase the risk of rear-end collisions, running off the road, or swerving into another lane.
If you take the necessary precautions, keeping yourself and others safe while driving during the winter is possible. Below are the most common winter hazards drivers encounter and how to avoid them.
Black Ice
Black ice is a slippery, clear coating of ice that can form on roads in freezing temperatures. Detecting the presence of black ice is nearly impossible. Many drivers don’t realize it’s there until their vehicle slides out of control.
You should remain cautious while driving in freezing temperatures. Adjust your speed and maintain a safe distance from other cars. Your vehicle can lose traction without warning and crash into another motorist if you’re traveling too close. Turn on your hazards, slow down, and focus on your surroundings.
Snow Blowing Off of Cars
Some drivers don’t scrape snow off the roofs of their vehicles, especially if they’re in a rush to get to work in the morning. The snow can fall onto the windshield, reducing visibility for the driver. Snow can also blow off cars traveling at high speeds, causing visibility issues for other people on the road.
Your best option when approaching a vehicle with snow on the roof is to keep your distance. Don’t tailgate or drive next to it. You can prevent piles of snow from ending up on your car if you pay attention to the vehicles around you and stay away from the ones with snow on them.
Poor Visibility
Snow can create visibility problems in numerous ways. Snowstorms might lead to whiteout conditions, making it challenging to see in front of or behind you while driving. A blinding glare can result from the sun reflecting off the snow on streets. Blind spots can also arise because of tall snowbanks at intersections and sharp turns.
You should never drive faster than weather conditions allow. Avoid leaving your home during heavy snowfall if possible. If you must drive, try staying away from other cars and maintain a low speed so you can brake when necessary.
Snow Drifts
Snow drifts are mounds of snow that form because of the wind. Blowing snow can be hazardous. The wind might drop a pile of snow onto the street, creating obstacles for drivers. However, you can give yourself the time you need to react if one appears in front of you by slowing down and focusing on the road ahead.
Frozen Overpasses and Bridges
Overpasses and bridges often freeze faster than roads. Your tires can lose traction and cause your car to slide out of control if you drive too fast over a bridge or overpass. You must be extra cautious, especially when temperatures hover around freezing.
Knowing the warning signs of a slippery bridge and overpass is crucial. Any precipitation that falls during freezing temperatures can cause ice to form. You should always reduce your speed when approaching an overpass or bridge. Sudden maneuvers can cause your vehicle to spin or slide, so avoid changing lanes, accelerating, or braking suddenly.
Negligent Drivers
Despite the precautions you take, preventing others from driving carelessly is impossible. You should never assume everyone is as safe a driver as you. You must prepare for the possibility of encountering a negligent driver while driving in the winter.
You might prevent a crash by keeping an adequate distance between your car and other vehicles. If you notice someone speeding or engaging in dangerous acts, slow down and give them room to pass.
Injured in a Car Crash? Contact The Mandel Law Firm Today
At The Mandel Law Firm, we understand how scary it can be to drive during winter. You face adverse weather conditions, dangerous roadways, and negligent drivers. When an accident occurs, you might be able to hold someone liable for your injury.
If you were hurt in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, call us at (646) 779-1441 for a confidential consultation. Let us help you fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.
