Safe Winter Driving: How to Avoid a Car Accident

Staying on high alert when driving on Kansas’ roads during the winter time can help to protect you from being in an accident. When snow piles up and things get icy, here are some tips to stay safe and avoid a car accident, as well as to be prepared if emergency does strike–

Prep Your Vehicle for Winter Driving

When driving in the wintertime, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is prepped for the cold weather and any precipitation it may encounter. This means:

• Using snow tires or chains if roads require it;
• Checking your antifreeze levels;
• Changing your oil;
• Replacing your windshield wipers;
• Making sure your car’s battery is in good shape; and
• Filling your gas tank – in the winter, you should always drive with at least a half tank of gas.

Before you drive in cold weather or iffy conditions, you should have your vehicle inspected by a professional.

Slow Down and Exercise Patience

There is no reason to travel at – and certainly not above – the speed limit when it is snowing out, the roads are icy, or traffic is backed up. Instead, you should slow down to a speed that is safe for conditions. Because this may very well mean that your route will take longer than normal, you should give yourself a little extra time to get to your destination of choice. Further, while driving in slower-than-normal conditions can be frustrating, be sure to stay calm and give other drivers plenty of room; the risk of an accident isn’t worth it.

Pack a Roadside Emergency Kit

If you will be traveling more than a few miles from home, especially if weather is bad, you should pack a roadside emergency kit just in case something happens. Make sure you have a spare tire and jack, a warm blanket, gloves and winter boots, non-perishable food items and water, a basic first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a cellphone with a charge. Depending on where you’re traveling to, flares may be a smart idea as well.

What to Do if a Crash Happens

Crashes in bad weather happen, but with safe driving practices, you can hopefully avoid an accident and serious damages. If you are involved in a wreck this winter, be sure to call our experienced Kansas car accident lawyers at the Wall Huntington Law Firm, 316-265-6000. We will help you to understand the claims process and how to maximize your settlement amount.