Ice and snow are major contributors to auto accidents. Whether you are a seasoned driver or are just learning to drive in hazardous weather you should always use extreme caution when traveling in a winter wonderland. Some drivers do not take extra precaution when driving in hazardous conditions, are reckless, and could cause an accident. If you have suffered physical or emotional harm because of someone else’s negligent or reckless actions including reckless driving, you are entitled to file a claim against the party at fault. Here are some tips to help you avoid an accident in the winter months and when to contact a personal injury lawyer in the event of an automobile accident.
1. Use good judgment. Whenever road closures are announced avoid these areas. Remember, your auto insurance is invalid if you choose to travel on a closed road. Roads that are not well traveled will present greater risk. Even if an announcement has not been made always avoid roads which you know are likely to be hazardous.
2. Prepare as best you can. If you live in an area which is prone to snow and ice you may want to purchase snow tires or add chains to your tires.
3. Drive slowly and use your brakes as little as possible. Braking on ice is very risky. Whenever possible you should slow to a stop.
4. Be alert! Remember that others may have difficulty stopping as well. Wait a few extra seconds to take off after your light turns green. You may just avoid another vehicle sliding through an intersection.
5. Take off slowly. Taking off can be nearly as problematic as stopping. Take care not to accelerate too quickly.
6. Follow at a safe distance. You need plenty of room between your car and the next when slowing to stop.
7. Take extra precautions on bridges and overpasses. Any elevated roadway will be prone to icing over. Accelerate slightly prior to reaching the beginning of a bridge (etc.) and then slowly let off the gas prior to crossing. The goal is to coast slowly across without accelerating or braking until you reach the other side safely.
No one wants to be in an accident regardless of fault. However, you should always be prepared. Keep an insurance card in your glove box and always remember to get the insurance information of the other person. In these weather conditions you may find yourself in a single car accident. Have a phone with you if possible when traveling and keep blankets in your vehicle throughout the winter. Drivers can become reckless or ignore inclement weather conditions that make roads unsafe.
If you find that you have been injured in an accident and suffered a personal injury be sure to contact an Illinois personal injury attorney. Always seek medical attention first if there is an injury. If you have been injured in a car accident, remember that the insurance company is not on your side. It is important to contact your insurance company after an accident occurs, but they are likely to not pay out on a claim that you deserve.
About the Author: Brooke Haley marketing associate at Millon & Peskin, Chicago workers compensation lawyer that practice in the areas of Civil Litigation, Workers’ Compensation, and Personal Injury. Millon & Peskin is a General Civil Litigation Practice with the goal of representing the interests of injured workers, throughout all applicable Courts within the State of Illinois. For more information, please visit http://www.millonpeskin.com.