When most of us think about snow and ice, we think about those poor people who live up in New England. After all, one of the reasons you like living in Atlanta is that you don’t get snow all that often. You don’t have to worry about car accidents in winter, right? It doesn’t snow all that often. Plus, you’re an experienced driver. You have nothing to worry about. Any car accident attorney in Atlanta can tell you otherwise.
These are some of the famous last words spoken by car accident victims. Car accidents in winter can be more dangerous than any other time of year. Between snow, ice and sleet, the roads can become slick and very dangerous. Even if you have 4-wheel drive, that doesn’t mean you’re invincible. Car accident lawyers in Atlanta meet with clients every year who were hurt out on the icy roads. It doesn’t take all that much for the roads in the city to ice up. When they do, it doesn’t matter what kind of car you have. Driving on ice is treacherous no matter what.
If you are involved in car accidents in winter here in Atlanta, you need help. You should call and talk to a skilled car accident attorney in Atlanta, Georgia.
What are the Most Common Causes of Car Crashes in the Winter?
One of the reasons so many people get hurt in car accidents in winter is because people think they’re invincible. Even if you’re used to driving in snow and sleet, you still need to be extra careful. All it takes is one patch of black ice and you can end up spinning in circles. Once you lose control of your car or SUV, there’s no telling what can happen.
Some of the most common causes of car accidents in winter include the following:
- Bald tires – If you have bald tires, you aren’t going to get traction in the snow or ice. Before winter arrives, get your tires checked. If need be, replace any tires that has threads that are going bare.
- Speeding – It can be hard to stop your car in the best weather conditions. When it’s sleeting or snowing, it can be a lot harder to stop. A good rule of thumb is to slowly start coming to a stop about 5 or 6 times earlier than you would in ideal weather.
- Sliding or skidding – Even if there’s snow on the ground, you’re still expected to stop at a red light or stop sign. If the roads are icy, this can be the most dangerous part of your drive home. Car accidents in winter are often caused by small patches of ice at intersections.
- Exiting the highway and road bridges – These are parts of the road that start to freeze a lot sooner than the rest of the highway. Make sure you take it slow when exiting the highway. Also pay attention to any signs warning that a bridge freezes sooner than the rest of the surface. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Even if you follow all of this advice, you could still end up getting hurt. Car accidents in winter claim thousands of lives nationwide. Make sure you don’t become a statistic.
Stay Off the Roads During Inclement Weather
It sounds like common sense, but a lot of people don’t heed this warning. If you don’t have to go out on the roads during inclement weather, stay home. A lot of car accidents in winter take place close to home. Someone runs out to the store and figures they’re safe. What could happen in the matter of mile or two? Unless you need to leave the house for an emergency or to go to work, stay home.
Always Keep an Emergency Kit in the Trunk of Your Car
Your parents probably reminded you about this all through your teen years. It’s worth mentioning here. Always have your emergency road kit in the trunk. Make sure you have blankets, flashlights and extra gasoline. The last thing you want to do is end up stranded in a snowstorm with no emergency supplies.
Talk to an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Atlanta
Car accidents in winter can be a nightmare. If you or your loved one are hurt in any crash due to inclement weather, call us right away. Talk to an experienced car accident lawyer in Atlanta right away. The consultation is free, and you don’t pay a dime until your case is resolved.
