Winter Car Accidents: 5 Most Common Causes

It’s a reality that accidents occur each day of the year, according to Allstate. These statistics might rise during the winter months, especially during and after a storm. Being a responsible driver means that you pay attention to the conditions surrounding the car. Winter car accidents are possible to learn about the causes that lead to them in the first place.

Visibility Issues

Visibility is a real concern for drivers during the winter. These issues might include:

1. Icy windows

2. Snow-covered windows

3. Blocked, rearview mirrors

You might be driving through a rainstorm, and visibility is a concern. As a safety guideline, prepare your car for the road before you turn on the engine. Wipe off the windows as much as possible. Maintain those windshield wipers. If you still have visibility issues after these steps, the road may be too treacherous to drive on for the moment. Winter car accidents can be avoided with some common-sense thinking.

Tailgating

Both law-enforcement personnel and local attorneys know that winter car accidents are extremely common when tailgating is involved. You drive too close to the car in front of you, and you inevitably strike them during a braking maneuver.

Avoid this accident by maintaining a safe distance. Winter has its share of road hazards, from ice patches to snowy days. There’s no reason to drive so close to a car ahead of you. Your response time is much longer during the winter when visibility is low and roads are slick.

Mechanical Decline

Superior Paint and Body Service report that mechanical issues contribute to winter accidents. Faulty brakes and bald tires are to blame for some accidents that are relatively severe.

Before you head out on the road, check these key areas, such as:

1. Tire-tread depth
2. Spare-tire quality
3. Brake pads

When your car has a clean bill of health, winter’s challenges won’t be too difficult to face. Brakes that fail and tires that can’t grip the road will only lead to trouble as the weather declines.

Icy Conditions

Ice is often difficult to spot on the road. Bridges are especially treacherous. Pay attention to local weather reports. If ice is covering the road, you may want to rethink that road trip. Brush up on your driving skills in icy conditions if you absolutely must be out in this weather. Your steering and acceleration play major roles in a safe ride too. Be on the lookout for out-of-control drivers as well. Driving defensively is just as important as knowing how to maneuver through the ice.

Hydroplaning

Many people don’t understand the science behind driving, especially when it comes to water. Hydroplaning and crashing into another object is a common occurrence during the winter. Although your area may not be prone to ice and snow, water itself can be treacherous.

Hydroplaning occurs when your vehicle rides on the water instead of the ground. Follow these steps to avoid a crash, including:

1. Taking the pressure off of the accelerator
2. Avoiding sudden moves with the steering wheel
3. Allowing the car to coast and return back to the road

Working with a personal injury lawyer may be necessary if real damages or injuries resulting from your winter car accidents. Don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you feel like you’re being treated unfairly by an insurance company or an at-fault party. Fixing your car and recovering on a medical level should be your only worries. Move past these accidents so that spring can welcome you with clear roads ahead.