Author:Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP
With the recent blizzard that hit New York, Long Island and surrounding areas, dangerous winter driving conditions are on many people’s minds. Some of people’s greatest concerns about ice and snow are driving in it. Their fears are not unwarranted either. Under treacherous winter conditions, many good drivers are prone to accidents, not to mention drivers who are inattentive or recklessly inclined.
Winter weather tips for drivers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offers some valuable tips for people driving in winter weather. Keeping up with vehicle maintenance is extremely important. Prepare your vehicle for winter driving conditions by taking care of the following:
- Fluid leaks
- Needed repairs
- Parts requiring replacement
- Battery with insufficient voltage to withstand temperature drops
- Lack of coolant
- Engine cooling system that needs to be flushed
- Improperly working windshield wipers and defrosters
- Inadequate air pressure in tires
- Tires lacking tread
In areas that get a lot of snow, using snow tires can increase traction and help prevent sliding. Whenever possible, you should stay off the roads when hazardous conditions exist. If you must go out in bad weather, clear the ice and snow off your car first and make sure you are prepared to deal with an emergency. Keep in your trunk a snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cable, flashlight, blankets, water, food, your medicines, and flares or reflective markers. Of course, carry your cell phone. If you do become stranded, make sure that snow does not block your exhaust pipe so that when running your car to stay warm you are not in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Unfortunately, winter accidents can happen. If you are involved in a winter driving accident, consult a Long Island car accident lawyer and find out how to protect your rights.
Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP has decades of experience helping clients recover compensation when someone else’s negligence causes a car accident.
