Did you know that 24% of vehicle accidents occur on snowy or icy roads? Around 1,300 people die while driving in winter weather each year.
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, driving in the winter can be stressful. While it’s impossible to fully prevent a car crash, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.
Are you wondering how to stay safe this winter and avoid needing an auto accident attorney in Spokane? If so, keep reading to learn more about winter driving safety.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
One of the best winter driving tips is to prepare your car before winter. If you live in an area that gets lots of snow, make sure you put winter tires on in the fall.
Winter tires have more tread than regular tires, making you less likely to lose traction in ice and snow. You also should add antifreeze to your car, check your battery, and instill new windshield wipers.
Check the Weather
If you want to drive safely in the winter, you should always check the weather before leaving. Even if the weather looks good when you leave, conditions can change quickly.
It’s always a good idea to plan an alternative route if the weather gets too bad. Checking the weather before you leave is also important so you know when to leave.
If it’s below freezing, you should give yourself plenty of extra time to make it to your destination. If there is extreme weather, you should stay at home.
Clean Off Your Car
Before you leave your house in the winter, you should always clean off your vehicle. Removing the snow and ice from your vehicle can make it easier to see, and it is safer for other drivers.
In some states, it is illegal to drive in the winter without cleaning off your vehicle. If you get in an accident because another driver didn’t clean off their vehicle, it’s always a good idea to contact a car accident attorney.
Slow Down
One of the most important winter driving tips is to slow down. The speed limits are the spend you can drive in perfect weather conditions. If the weather is bad, you should not try to drive the speed limit.
If you have to drive in bad winter conditions, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. If you feel rushed, you are more likely to drive fast and not focus on the road.
You also should avoid slowing down quickly and taking turns too fast. Any sudden movements in winter weather can cause your vehicle to slide.
Do You Need to Hire an Auto Accident Attorney in Spokane?
Driving in the winter can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to make it safer. When driving in the winter, prepare your vehicle, check the weather before leaving, clean your car, and slow down.
Did you get into a winter car crash and need to hire an auto accident attorney in Spokane? If so, check out our auto accident services to get started.