Driving Safely and Avoiding Car Accidents During the Winter

 Posted on November 28,2018 in Driving Safety

On the afternoon of Monday, November 26th, 2018, five people were severely injured in a multiple car crash on the Ohio Street Feeder Ramp down to the Kennedy Expressway. According to the Illinois State Patrol, the accident was caused by dangerous winter driving conditions. 

Staying safe while driving in winter weather can be a difficult proposition. If you or a loved one are injured in a car accident this winter, you should seek out legal representation as soon as possible. 

Dangerous Areas and Conditions for Winter Driving

While driving in snow and ice can be dangerous no matter what the situation is, there are a number of road environments that are increasingly dangerous throughout the winter months: 

• Ramps and Bridges: Due to the raised nature of bridges and ramps, they are more likely to accumulate ice. Ice can affect a driver’s ability to stop their vehicle while also impacting their steering capabilities. Next time you drive on a ramp or bridge, learn from the mistakes of others and slow down. 
• Intersections: According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), an average of 9,000 Americans are killed in collisions at intersections every single year. An additional 700,000 Americans are injured each year in intersection accidents. In all, accidents at intersections make up approximately half of all fatal and severe injury collisions throughout the United States. During winter months, intersections are even more dangerous than usual. When approaching an intersection, keep a safe distance between you and the driver in front of you and brake early and often. 
• Night-Time Driving: Driving at night is always dangerous, as a disproportionate amount of fatal accidents occur in the hours of darkness. During the winter months, heavy snowfall can further limit visibility during night-time driving. Because of this limited visibility, it can also be difficult to spot patches of ice or other dangerous road conditions. Next time you drive at night this winter, drive with extreme caution. 

Meet With a Waukegan Auto Accident Lawyer

Driving in winter weather can be incredibly difficult and dangerous. Unsurprisingly, weather related accidents are quite common throughout the greater Chicago area. If you are involved in a motor vehicle collision this winter, finding a legal team that you can trust can be critical in ensuring you receive the financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation with a Lake County personal injury attorney, call our office today at 847-662-3303. 

Sources:

https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-met-five-hurt-ohio-feeder-crash-20181126-story.html

https://highways.dot.gov/research-programs/safety/intersection-safety