Staying Aware During the Winter Driving Season

December 04, 2010 (Press-News.org) Accidents can occur on the roads and highways regardless of the time of year or road conditions. The winter months, however, increase conditions that promote serious accidents and injuries. According to a study by the University of California Berkley, adverse weather conditions result in 7,000 fatalities, 800,000 injuries and more than 1.5 million car crashes nationally each year.

The report, as cited in Forbes Magazine, also found that the most dangerous day of the year to drive is the day after the first snowstorm of the season. During this time, people are unprepared to drive in winter conditions and do not adopt safer driving habits until later in the season.

Steps to Protect Yourself

While there may be inherent dangers in winter driving, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances that you will be involved in an accident. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV) recommends that drivers prepare their vehicles before the season approaches, making sure that their vehicle is ready for winter weather and dangerous conditions, both inside and out.

Speed is a contributing factor in many auto accidents. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a driver traveling "too fast for conditions" was a factor in 8.4 percent of all accidents. With slippery roads, snow and the potential for ice, drivers need to stay aware of road conditions and adjust their speeds accordingly. Drivers are also urged to drive defensively and expect other vehicles to have difficulty in slippery conditions.

Tires are one of the most important, yet often overlooked, components of the vehicle. The NYS DMV recommends drivers put snow tires, preferably, or all-weather tires on their vehicles during the winter months. It is also critical that the tires be properly inflated and have adequate amount of tread.

The winter months offer fewer hours of daylight and the weather conditions can often decrease visibility. It is important to make sure that windshield wipers, headlights and brake lights are in good working condition. But perhaps the best thing you can do, according to the NYS DMV, is to pay attention to the weather conditions. If they are too bad, or expected to get worse, avoid driving until the conditions improve.

Whatever precautions you take this winter season, accidents can and will happen. If you have been injured in any sort of traffic accident, it is important to discuss your options with an experienced personal injury attorney.

Article provided by O'Connor, O'Connor, Bresee & First, P.C.
Visit us at www.upstatenyautoaccidentinjurylaw.com