Winter can be a dangerous time to be on the road as weather conditions including ice, sleet, and snow make driving more hazardous. Drivers should be especially attentive when temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Many states have driving rules during the colder seasons including removing snow and ice from all windows, and motorists who fail to meet these driver rules may be liable for fines. Read on to find out more about preparing cars for winter driving.
Preparing Your Car for Winter
Becoming stranded in the winter can be dangerous. However, people may increase their chances of survival by staying in their car, preparing emergency kits, and leaving at least one window slightly open to prevent snow and ice from sealing a car. Below is a list of preparations all drivers should complete to prepare their vehicle for winter:
- Do a checkup: Check battery, brakes, wires, ignition, hoses, fan belts, PCV valves and fuel, air, and emissions filters. Check antifreeze and freeze line, inspect distributors, and change or adjust spark plugs. Finally, have a car tune-up and check the tires.
- Emergency equipment: All vehicles should bring emergency equipment on the road including jumper cables, tow and tire chains, bag of salt, shovel, spare tire, wheel wrench, tripod jack, and tool kit during the winter.
- Survival kit: It’s a good idea to prepare a survival kit in the winter with essential supplies including flashlights, batteries, compass, first aid kit, reflective triangles, windshield cleaner, matches, scissors, ice scraper, snow brush, blanket, drinking water, and food.
Driving Rules
Many states have winter rules that require certain precautions when driving. Below are some common winter driving rules:
- Drive at speed limit or lower depending on weather
- Increase following distance to eight to ten seconds
- Use headlights and low beams when driving in snow
- Be cautious of snowplow operators
- Avoid tailgating and unnecessary passing
- Don’t hit the brakes or accelerate if your car skids
- Keep winter safety kit in car
- Slow down on highway ramps, which may have ice
- Turn on emergency flashers when pulling off the road
- Remain in your vehicle if car becomes disabled
Driver Negligence
Drivers may be considered negligent when they behave in a careless manner, which causes harm to others. This includes driving at reasonable speeds, remaining alert, maintaining control of a car, and maintaining car equipment. Drivers who damage property or another person because of negligence, such as driving without headlights on during snow, may be liable for a lawsuit.
Getting Help
Victims who suffered harm as a result of driver negligence may be eligible for compensation to pay for loss of property, injuries, and mental distress. Consult with Jeffrey H. Penneys, Esq. to get your questions answered and see if your claim qualifies for a lawsuit. To find out more, please call today or fill out our online contact form and we will get back with you within 24 hours.