Driving in Raleigh, North Carolina, during winter can be very challenging. Most people have been involved in fatal accidents that have claimed lives and sometimes permanent disability. Even though North Carolina receives little snowfall, the freezing rain, wind, and fog often contribute to car accidents. Adding the densely wooded areas and the mountains to the mix makes it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. That is why, before starting a journey, you must adequately prepare for winter. Some of the preparation includes hiring reputable lawyers such as Younce, Vtipil, Baznik & Banks, P.A., who can help you get compensation in case of an accident. They will also guide you on every step you need to take to avoid an accident and file a claim when an accident happens. Here are incredible tips for getting through the winter season in North Carolina and avoiding car accidents.
Preparation as Temperatures Drop
As the winter begins, it’s critical to prepare psychologically and ensure that your vehicle is in a suitable condition. It will include
- Checking and maintaining antifreeze, battery, and oil levels
- Filling up the gas tank and keeping it constantly full in case of emergencies
- Check your brake fluid and brakes to ensure they are in proper condition
- Changing your tires and ensuring you have the correct air pressure is essential. Note that underinflated or overfilled tires can be hazardous
- Make sure your headlights are kept clean
Tips to Avoid Car Crashes During Winter
- Slow Down
It might seem obvious, but most people often forget or are ignorant. Even if you are running late, you must take your time and avoid high speeds in winter since it increases your risk of weather-related accidents. Often, when the roads are wet or icy, it takes longer for your car to stop, especially at high speeds. Furthermore, the invisibility when it’s rainy or snowy makes you at risk of an accident. If you must travel, allow an extra distance between your car and the vehicle in front to prevent rear-end collisions. This allows you enough time to react since other drivers may not be driving cautiously.
- Driving in The Rain at Night
At night, rain visibility is blurred, and the wet roads reflect light, creating a glare. In addition to slowing down during the rainy night, it’s crucial to avoid focusing on the edges or outlines of objects. Your eye can pick up images better this way than looking directly at things. Furthermore, you need to be aware of hydroplaning, in which the vehicle loses contact with the road, leading to skidding. If your car is hydroplaning, lift your foot from thе accеlеrator and avoid braking. Also, stееr thе vеhiclе in thе dirеction you want your car to go instеad of turning.
- Driving on Ice
It’s tough to drive on ice safely. Unless it’s essential to go, you must stay home or park somewhere safe until the ice reduces. If you must drive, gradually maintain a steady speed and brake.
Talk To Your Attorney
Supposе you arе involvеd in an accidеnt causеd by anothеr drivеr. In that casе, you must consult an attornеy to hеlp you undеrstand your lеgal options and how to procееd. This will include gathering evidence to file a claim and ways to avoid mistakes.
