Harsh 2013-2014 winter season spawns myriad Delaware car accidents

March 13, 2014

Though Delaware drivers may be used to cold-weather conditions, this winter has been particularly brutal. The unusually harsh conditions are likely attributed to the rare weather phenomenon known as the "polar vortex" that brought record cold temperatures, never-before-seen snow totals, heating oil shortages and unprecedented winter storm-related damage to much of the country.

In addition to the structural damage caused directly by heavy snow or trees that couldn't support the heavy weight of ice, and sharp increases in the cost of providing heat, the relentless winter weather has resulted in hours of highway gridlock for Delaware residents and countless injury-causing car accidents. Clearly, there isn't much that the average driver can do to control the weather, but there are ways to minimize the chances that you will be involved in an accident should conditions deteriorate.

Adjusting your driving for weather conditions

By driving carefully, thoughtfully and focused on the road, you can decrease the likelihood that you will crash. Winter road conditions require all your attention and concentration. You will need to pay close attention to traffic, compensate for the impact of snow or ice on the roadway and maintain control of your vehicle at all times.

Turning off your cellphone, for example, or at least putting it on "silent" or "vibrate" and stowing it out of sight, while you are behind the wheel will ensure that you are not tempted to pull your focus off the road. Numerous studies have shown that texting and talking on a cellphone are distracting even in the best of conditions, but if you do that while trying to navigate a snowy or icy roadway, you are setting yourself up for an accident.

In addition, adjusting your speed to account for the weather and traffic conditions can be the determining factor in whether you make it to your destination safely or you are seriously injured in a car accident. When snow and ice coat the road, it is much more difficult for your tires to maintain traction; driving just a few miles-per-hour slower can give your wheels the grip they need to stop safely.

Furthermore, watching the actions of other drivers alongside and ahead of you will hopefully give you adequate time to take evasive maneuvers should one of them not be as conscientious of the difficulties. Unfortunately, not all accidents can be avoided with your diligence; sometimes your careful actions aren't enough to overcome the reckless or negligent behavior of another driver.

Seeking help

Thankfully, the winter season is almost over, but if you endured a catastrophic injury in one of the myriad motor vehicle accidents that happened during the colder months, this spring may not be as hopeful as usual for you. You might be worried about paying your medical bills, concerned about missing work (and missing out on a steady income because of it) and fighting to regain your health. During this difficult time, you need someone you can depend upon. While you can trust your medical team to advise you about your recovery, you should also be aware that your legal rights need to be protected. Speak with an experienced Delaware personal injury attorney for more information about possible legal options to recover compensation for your injuries.

Article provided by Law Offices of Joseph J. Rhoades, Esq.
Visit us at www.rhoadeslegal.com