Did you know that 22 percent of all auto accidents in the United States are weather-related? It’s true. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 6,000 people are killed and more than 445,000 people are injured in weather-related accidents each year in the US.
And you may think that it’s all related to wintry conditions – but in reality, the number one cause for weather-related car crashes is wet pavement at 73 percent. In fact, only a small percentage of winter weather is the cause of an auto accident.
But this doesn’t mean you should drive like a maniac during a snow storm. It just means that we tend to be a little more careful when driving in snow or rain. If you must drive during a snow storm or when the roads are in a less than ideal condition, keep these tips in mind:
- When driving, accelerate and decelerate your speed slowly. This is the best method to keep traction while on a snowy road.
- Keep a large distance between you and the car ahead of you. That way if the first car starts skidding, you have a chance to slow down and stop.
- Try not to stop if it’s possible. That doesn’t mean you should ignore the rules of the road, but you would have some trouble starting up again after a complete stop.
- Whatever you do, don’t stop on or try to to accelerate up a hill. Instead, speed up a little to get the inertia you need to get up the hill. By accelerating on hill, you’re just spinning your wheels.
If you get into a weather-related auto accident and need legal assistance, we’re here to help! Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation.