Preparing for Colder Weather on the Road
The winter season is just around the corner, and many across North Carolina are looking forward to bundling up and spending time with friends and family during the holidays. However, this time of year can also pose additional safety hazards for those on the road because of inclement weather conditions, including rain, snow, or fog.
In fact, data from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) reveals that weather plays a role in about 21% of annual car accidents. With this in mind, it’s essential for drivers to arm themselves with the information below as we head into the cooler months.
Maintain Your Tires
Cold weather and inclement conditions can reduce your ability to control your vehicle. Tires that are not properly maintained can pose a safety hazard to you and others on the road and cause a skid, hydroplaning, or a tire blowout. It’s important that you regularly check your tire pressure, at least once a week, and inflate them if needed. Additionally, ensuring that your tires have the proper tread can enhance your traction and ensure your vehicle properly grips the road.
Get New Wiper Blades
Visibility out your windshield is crucial when behind the wheel, and proper wiper blades can ultimately help keep you safe when rain or snow begins to fall. Before the cold weather hits, check your wiper blades and replace them if necessary. Some signs that your vehicle may need a new pair of wipers include cracked or split rubber, windshield streaks or film, bent frames, noisy when in use, or if your wipers don’t make contact with certain parts of your windshield.
Keep an Emergency Kit Handy
You never know when you may involved in an accident or break down in an area without people around or cell phone service. You should your any emergency situations by always keeping a winter survival kit in your vehicle that consists of flashlights, batteries, snacks, water, food, gloves, blankets, jumper cables, road flares, extra car fuel, tire chains, and a first-aid kit.
Drive Defensively
Lastly, you are responsible for driving defensively and operating your vehicle with a certain level of care that is consistent with external conditions that pose a safety hazard. For instance, while it may be reasonable to drive at the speed limit in ideal conditions, it is often safer for you to reduce your speed and increase your buffer when driving in inclement weather. Always remain vigilant behind the wheel and expect the unexpected so you can be ready for anything.
Injured in a Car Crash?
All of us at Wallace Pierce Law hope that the tips above help you feel prepared to stay safe on the road as the weather gets colder. However, we recognize that even the safest, most prepared motorists can still be injured due to the negligence of others. Our Durham personal injury truly care about your recovery and will do everything in our power to help you obtain justice and maximum compensation for your losses.
Don’t wait to get started on your case—time is of the essence! Contact our team at (919) 887-7892 to get started with a free case review.