- Have Your Car Examined Before Your Departure
Ensuring your vehicle is properly maintained before you leave is one of the most crucial steps in avoiding a winter driving incident. Make an effort to take it to your local auto shop for a quick once over, touch off the antifreeze, replace windshield wipers and above all, make sure your tires are winter ready and properly inflated.
- Be Flexible When Setting Your Travel Plans
The traffic between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day can bring along with it added stress. Leave a little earlier to avoid peak traffic hours and check the weather forecast to plan around potential storms. It’s always better to reschedule than to put the lives of your loved ones at risk.
- Take Plenty of Breaks
Driving in the winter is much more tiring than during other seasons. Stay alert and keep your mind fresh by pulling over often. If you get tired, find a rest area where you can stretch your legs, catch some fresh air or buy a pick-me-up to help revive yourself. Don’t ignore signs of fatigue as most single car accidents happen in the early hours of the morning or late at night when drivers are tired and pushing unrealistic schedules.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Slow down and give yourself plenty of space—especially when winter weather conditions strike. This will give you plenty of time and distance to react to potentially dangerous situations and better avoid being involved in an accident. Furthermore, let aggressive, impatient drivers pass you, and if you can’t avoid them in the moment, pull of at the next available intersection.
- Keep an Emergency Car Kit On Hand
Prepare yourself for potentially dangerous situations by packing a quality emergency car kit that includes essentials for wintertime. Include an extra cell phone charger, ice scraper, blankets, candles, a tow rope, flashlights, matches, first aid kit, sand for traction, water and high-protein snacks to help prepare for a safe road trip.
While these five tips may help you avoid winter driving accidents, there is always a chance that an unseen circumstance can take place. If you or a loved one has found yourself in a situation where you need representation or assistance with a car accident case, call Simon Law Group to speak with an experienced Phoenix motor vehicle lawyer who can help you today. With over 30 years of personal injury experience, we will always stand up for your rights and work hard to obtain the best results possible.
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