5 Winter Road Mistakes Careful Drivers Do Not Make

 Posted on December 16, 2021 in Motor Vehicle Accidents

Illinois winters can bring mountains of snow, often accompanied by ice and strong winds. Anyone who has driven through a Chicago blizzard can tell you how cautious a driver must be to avoid an accident. Unfortunately, not everyone exercises this standard of care in driving through our often beautiful but dangerous winter weather. More motor vehicle accidents happen in the wintertime when drivers fail to respect the hazards associated with winter driving in Illinois.

If you were injured in a winter car crash, it is important that you contact an attorney promptly. The same weather conditions that contribute to crashes can quickly cover up needed evidence at the accident scene, so time is of the essence.

What Negligent Winter Driving Behaviors Cause Crashes?

To safely drive around in Illinois winters, there are a few precautions that should be taken. Failing to follow these safety recommendations can lead to serious accidents. In the winter, careless motorists may fail to:

• Weatherproof - Getting the vehicle itself ready for winter is just as important as getting the driver ready for winter. Additional vehicle maintenance may be needed when the seasons change to keep the car safe for use. Tires should be checked for tread and proper inflation. For pickup trucks, sandbags or other heavy items should be placed in the bed to reduce the chances of fishtailing. Careful drivers follow a mechanic’s recommendations in preparing their vehicle for winter driving.
• Stop early - Patches of ice or melted snow can cause a vehicle to lose traction while braking and skid. Cautious drivers begin braking well in advance so that if they do hit a slick surface, they are less likely to strike another vehicle before regaining control.
• Turn slowly - It is very common for careless drivers to lose control of their vehicles while taking a turn too fast on slippery roads. Good caution dictates that sharp turns should be approached at slow speeds while the roads are icy.
• Off-road - Visibility can be quite poor during snowstorms or winter fog. If a driver is not paying very close attention to ensure that he is staying in his lane and following the road, it is quite possible that he may find himself not on the road anymore. An inattentive driver could lose track of the lane he is in or where the median begins and cause a collision.
• Distraction - Distracted driving is dangerous in any season, but when visibility is poor and the roads are slick, taking one’s eyes off the road for even a moment can have devastating consequences.

It can be frustrating for careful drivers to end up in an accident caused by a careless driver. A qualified attorney can set you on the path to receiving fair compensation for your injuries.

Call an Illinois Car Accident Attorney

If you were hurt by a careless driver who failed to account for winter conditions, consider contacting Lucas Law. Our experienced Barrington vehicle collision lawyers will immediately begin investigating your accident to preserve evidence and prove your claim. Call us at 847-381-8700 for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/important-winter-car-care-tips