Michigan winters can certainly pack a wallop on unsuspecting drivers

February 26, 2014

This winter has been particularly harsh for many living in Michigan, especially in the Grand Rapids area. For instance, while a typical Grand Rapids winter brings an average of roughly 75 inches of snow - a number that makes it the 7th snowiest major city in the U.S. - as of mid-February, this winter's snowfall already exceeded the 92-inches mark, according to a report by The Grand Rapids Press.

Unfortunately, those living in Western Michigan have little choice in the matter when Mother Nature decides to inflict such severe winter weather - weather that all too often can lead to severe trucking and car accidents on Michigan roadways.

Indeed, the risk of driving in dangerous weather cannot be overstated. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, from 2002 to 2012, over 480,000 people in the U.S. were injured in 1,311,970 weather-related car accidents. Moreover, an alarming 1,921 people were killed during the same period in accidents attributed to snowy, slushy or icy conditions.

Some common winter driving tips

In most instances, that best advice for driving in winter conditions is to stay off the roads in the first place - although, as everyone in Michigan is well aware, avoiding winter weather is not always possible. Fortunately, The Weather Channel has compiled a list of several driving tips that may be able to help keep Michigan drivers safe this winter while traversing the slippery roadways. For instance, on icy roads drivers should:
- Always leave at least three times more space than usual between cars to ensure there is enough room to stop
- Avoid slamming on the brakes, which can cause skids, and instead brake gently
- Make sure car headlights are on and windshield is clean
- Avoid using cruise control or overdrive, particularly when icy
- Try to use lower gears to gain traction on inclines or icy hills
- Be particularly careful on overpasses and bridges as ice can develop even if temps are above freezing
- Do not "over-drive" any vehicle as even four-wheel drive cars can encounter difficulty with winter conditions

Sadly, however, even the most cautious and well-prepared driver can be involved in a serious winter-related car accident. Regardless of whether these accidents are caused by other negligent drivers, or simply the result of weather conditions, it is often best to seek the counsel of an experienced car accident attorney if an injury occurs. A skilled and knowledgeable attorney can not only help deal with your own insurance company but also assist in ensuring other drivers are held accountable for their actions.

Article provided by Willis Law
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