It can be more dangerous to drive during the winter months, and that’s all the more reason to exercise caution. There are plenty of winter driving hazards to look out for, but if other drivers are not as careful as you are you still might get hurt in an accident. When those negligent drivers need to be held responsible, our Monmouth County car accident attorneys can help.
Which Winter Driving Hazards Do I Need to Look Out For?
Every time this season rolls around, we can expect at least a few of these common winter driving hazards to show up. Drivers have to account for dangers like:
- Slippery snow and ice
- Blinding glare from the sun reflecting off of ice and snow
- Reduced visibility due to snow and other weather conditions
- Cold weather that causes battery failure
- Road salt (not an immediate hazard, but you shouldn’t let it accumulate on your car)
The presence of these winter driving hazards just means that you have to adjust your driving habits a bit and be more careful every time you hit the road.
Can I Prepare For Winter Driving Hazards?
You cannot prepare for absolutely everything, but you can do a few things to make these winter driving hazards less risky to deal with. We recommend:
- Packing an emergency kit in case you get stuck somewhere
- Visiting the mechanic to have crucial components, like lights, the battery, and brake parts, examined before any long trips
- Always leave more than enough time to get to your destination
- Reduce your speed of travel
- Put more distance between yourself and the cars in front of you
- Keep an eye on your tires to make sure that they stay inflated to the right pressure levels
What Happens If I Get Into a Crash Due to One of These Hazards?
So you followed all of our advice to adjust for these winter driving hazards and you’ve played it safe. Then you get hit by another driver and injured. They try to claim that it’s not their fault because of icy conditions, but you still may have a case.
One of these hazards can certainly contribute to an accident, but they are rarely the only cause. We bet that if you really investigated the matter, that driver who slipped on ice was speeding or perhaps distracted. Their negligence may have still played a role in causing you harm, and that can be addressed with a personal injury suit.
When Should I Talk to a Lawyer?
If you do get hurt in an accident, we recommend talking to a lawyer right away. They can help you gather evidence and take legal action before the statute of limitations expires. They can then help you fight for a fair compensation offer that makes up for things like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Meet With Our Team
If you get injured in a car crash with a negligent driver, we want to help you hold them accountable. Contact the Wilton Law Firm and ask to schedule a free case consultation. We are ready to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.