Tips for Driving on Icy Roads

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

Although spring weather is just around the corner, Illinois is still dealing with winter storms, which presents a number of challenges for drivers. Preventing car accident and injury is crucial, no matter what time of year, but it is especially important to take special safety precautions during those wet, cold, icy months that make our roadways significantly more hazardous. Icy conditions, in particular, can be very treacherous for drivers, which is why it is wise to make sure we stay on top of our winter weather driving knowledge to keep ourselves, our passengers, and others safe. Tips for Driving in Icy Conditions According to expert advice from CBS News, there are certain steps drivers can take to decrease their chances of accidents when venturing out onto the highways during the winter season. It is suggested that every driver practice the following when operating a vehicle under icy weather conditions: Maintain proper tire pressure - Big changes in temperature can drastically affect your tire pressure, so it is extremely important to make sure you maintain proper levels throughout the cold season. It is recommended that you check the pressure every week, or at least once a month at minimum. Another alternative is to use radial snow tires on your vehicle, which are designed to remain flexible when temperatures fluctuate. Keep windshield wipers in good shape. - It is crucial to make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition to ensure you have clear visibility when driving in snow. You should also consider using a winter-formula window washer fluid to prevent your windshield from icing over in cold temperatures. Control your skid - As most vehicles are now front-wheel drive, the rule of thumb when you begin to slide on ice is to steer in the direction you want to go. Use your field of vision as a guide, looking in the direction you want to go, and then steer. Keep your foot on the gas and rely on your anti-lock brake system to do its job. Your control is limited when you begin to slide, but this will help you maintain what control you can. Do not speed - Speeding when roads are icy is a deadly combination. In fact, most collisions that take place on icy roads are usually due to speeding. When driving in snow or on ice, a vehicle may take nine times longer to come to a stop than under normal, ideal conditions, so keep this in mind as you drive.

Should you experience an accident or injury due to a winter-weather related car collision, consulting with a knowledgeable Lake County car accident attorney is an important step toward protecting your rights in a court of law. Make sure you receive the proper compensation due to you following the collision. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP today at 847-662-3303 for a personal consultation.

Source: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/driving-safely-on-icy-roads/