Winter in Kentucky can bring icy road conditions that make driving dangerous, as black ice, freezing rain, and sudden snowstorms increase the risk of losing control and crashing. Adjusting your driving habits for cold weather can help reduce your likelihood of car accidents on icy roads.
How to Drive Safely in Icy Conditions
Driving on snow or icy roads requires extra caution and slower, more deliberate actions. Even experienced drivers can lose control if they do not take proper precautions.
When temperatures drop and roads turn slick, it is essential to adjust your approach behind the wheel. Here are some key safety tips for winter driving:
- Reduce your speed significantly. Icy roads require slower speeds, even if the posted limit is higher. If you drive too fast, it is easier to lose control and harder to stop in time to avoid a crash.
- Accelerate and brake gently. Sudden movements can cause skidding. Apply the gas pedal and brake pedal slowly to maintain traction, and start braking well in advance of intersections, curves, or stops. Virtually all newer cars have anti-lock brakes (ABS). It is better to apply steady pressure to the brake pedal if your vehicle has ABS. Do not pump the brakes.
- Avoid using cruise control. Cruise control can keep the wheels spinning even with reduced traction. Stay in complete control of the vehicle to more effectively respond to changes in road conditions.
- Increase following distance. Leave extra space of at least 8 to 10 seconds between your car and the vehicle ahead. That gives you more time to react if traffic slows or stops unexpectedly.
- Do not make sharp turns. Make steering movements gradually and smoothly. If you jerk the steering wheel, it can cause the tires to slide, especially at intersections or on bridges.
- Stay in one lane when possible. Changing lanes can be risky on icy roads. Stick to the clearest lane and avoid unnecessary movements.
- If you start to skid, steer into it. Do not panic or slam on the brakes. Take your foot off the gas and gently steer in the direction you want the car to go.
- Check your tires before you go. Snow tires or winter tires are better than all-season tires when driving in icy or snowy conditions. Ensure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated and have good tread.
What to Do If You’ve Been in a Car Accident in Icy Road Conditions
Even if you do everything right in wintry conditions, other negligent drivers can still cause an auto accident.
The first steps you take after a car accident on an icy or snow-covered road can have a significant effect on what happens in the days and weeks to come.
Report the accident, seek medical attention, and document the scene if it’s safe to do so. Then, contact our Kentucky car accident lawyers as soon as possible. Ice-related crashes often involve disputes over fault, and securing legal guidance can protect your rights from the outset.
How Our Lawyers Help People Hurt in Car Crashes on Icy Roads
Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer is ready to help people injured in winter-weather crashes. Our law firm investigates what happened, identifies who may be at fault, and handles insurance claims so our clients can take the time they need to focus on healing.
If you got hurt in a car accident on an icy road, you may be entitled to compensation for the resulting injuries and losses. Contact the team at Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer today at (877) 809-5352 for a free consultation to discuss your case. We are available 24/7 to take your call and provide legal support at no financial risk to you.
