As we dig deeper into December, the importance of winter weather driving safety increases. The recent wintry blast – which affected travel and caused car accidents across the country – showcases the need to be able to avoid losing control of your car in bad road conditions.
Winter Weather Causes Car Accidents Across the Country
Late last week and into the weekend, winter weather hit across the country. From Colorado clear through to Maine, winter weather advisories were posted. St. Joseph was only one of the countless cities to get hit with freezing precipitation of some sort.
Unfortunately, with these terrible weather conditions comes difficult driving and car accidents. Across the country, police responded to hundreds of accidents. At least nine people died in car crashes due to the weather. Several other fatalities that could have been weather-related are still under investigation, though, so this number could grow.
Roads in the Midwest, always in the tricky position between snow and rain, were especially dangerous. Freezing rain and ice caused dozens of crashes in Indiana, while icy conditions in Ohio and Nebraska were responsible for fatal car accidents, as well. There were multiple fatal accidents in Missouri, as well. One was a truck accident in Lebanon, Missouri, 55 miles northeast of Springfield. A tractor-trailer driving westbound on Route 44 lost control on ice, crossed into the eastbound lanes, and hit an oncoming Jeep Renegade. A 13-year-old passenger in the Jeep was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash.
There were two other fatal accidents in southern Missouri, as well.
How to Avoid an Accident in Winter Weather
When the weather gets bad and the roads get covered in snow or ice, getting behind the wheel becomes risky. These three driving techniques can help you keep control of your vehicle make a huge difference on the road:
- If your car slides or fishtails, remember to steer into the skid. This means turning your wheel in the same direction that the rear of your car is going.
- Preventing your car from skidding or sliding in the first place is crucial. Most skids and slides happen when you drive too fast for the conditions. Slowing down is the best way to avoid them.
- Increase the distance between you and other cars. It takes longer for your vehicle to come to a stop when there is snow or ice on the road. Adding extra room can make a huge difference.
St. Joseph Car Accident Attorneys at the Smith Law Office
Driving in the snow and the ice is always risky. However, utilizing these safe driving techniques can decrease the chances that you cause a serious car accident. However, just because you are driving safely does not mean everyone else is. When someone else’s reckless driving causes a car accident that gets you hurt, you need a personal injury attorney from the Smith Law Office.
If you get involved in a car accident in or near St. Joseph, contact the car accident attorneys at the Smith Law Office online or at (816) 875-9373.