The weather that comes with the winter season may offer picturesque scenery. However, it may not offer the best driving conditions for drivers on Maryland roads. During this time, it is important to practice defensive driving, along with ensuring that you and your vehicle are equipped to drive in the elements. Follow along to find out the most common winter driving hazards to look out for and how a proficient St. Mary’s County car accident lawyer at The Dorsey Law Firm can offer you legal protection.
What are the most common winter driving hazards to look out for?
Namely, snow and ice lead to many potential driving hazards on Maryland roads. The most common examples, which you should be mindful of, are as follows:
- Drivers may unknowingly drive over black ice, which leads to less traction between their tires and the road.
- Drivers may instinctively hit the brakes too hard when losing traction, which leads to hydroplaning or brake failure and ultimately a collision.
- Drivers may experience poor visibility while driving during snowfall, which leads to a rear-end accident or any other type of collision.
- Drivers may not thoroughly clean off their snow-covered vehicles, which leads to diminished visibility and ultimately a collision.
What safety tips should I follow this winter season?
Of note, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a set of safety tips that you should follow before hitting the road this winter season. Some of the tips read as follows:
- Check that your tires are adequately inflated, as lower temperatures may translate into lower tire pressures.
- Check the lights, windshield wipers, and cooling system within your vehicle to ensure it can handle winter-related driving conditions.
- Stock your vehicle with equipment that may aid in winter-related driving emergencies, such as a snow shovel, an ice scraper, and even a jumper cable.
- Minimize the drain in your battery and ensure it is adequately charged, as it may have reduced energy storage and delivery capabilities at lower temperatures.
It is also worth mentioning that it is recommended to avoid driving during nighttime hours while it is snowing. This is because snow has light-reflecting properties that cause your headlights to reflect light back at you and ultimately diminish your visibility. So generally speaking, you should consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared from serious snow and ice.
Yet, if you still find yourself, unfortunately, the victim of an auto accident, then you may want to consider taking legal action. With the serious legal proceedings ahead, you should not go through this alone. Rather, you should have a talented St. Mary’s County auto accident lawyer from The Dorsey Law Firm stand by your side throughout. Contact our firm today.
