How Negligent Drivers Can Cause a Winter Car Accident in Ohio

 Posted on February 17, 2020 in Personal Injury

With weather that fluctuates daily in Ohio and surrounding states, it can be difficult to become accustomed to driving on icy roads. As a result, car accidents with minor to serious injuries can occur frequently. Winter may come around every year, but that does not mean that everyone on the road is prepared to battle the weather while behind the wheel. Sometimes, the “problem driver” is not you, but the negligent motorist next to you on the road. While you cannot control the weather or everyone else around you, it is important to be aware of how the reckless actions of drivers around you can cause an accident. These may include:

Failure to Perform Required Maintenance

Before the winter season begins, drivers are responsible for making sure their cars are prepared for the winter weather. Testing a car's battery is an important step to take, since battery power decreases as the temperature drops, making it fairly common to have a dead battery in the middle of winter. Tire pressure also drops in low temperatures, and checking tires regularly can keep motorists from experiencing a blown-out tire or sliding on the streets. Not using wiper fluid that is rated for 30 degrees below zero to avoid frozen liquid on the windshield can impair a driver’s ability to see clearly.

Being Unprepared Before Getting Behind the Wheel

Unfortunately, driving in the winter can be a more complex process than driving during warmer weather. With snow and ice building up on a car’s windshield, all drivers should perform a quick check before getting on the road. Warming up the car for a few minutes before driving is a good way to make sure that everything is in proper working order. Drivers who do not take the time to remove dirt, snow, and ice from mirrors, windows, and assistive-driving features like rear back-up cameras can put themselves and others at risk. Many motorists may forget to clear the cameras but still rely on them for parking, which places them in a dangerous situation since they cannot see their surroundings. 

Not Adjusting for Conditions

With snow and ice on the pavement, it is critical that drivers reduce their speed. Many drivers struggle with what to do if their car begins to skid. While the instinct may be to slam on the brakes, drivers should steer in the direction of the skid until the tires regain their traction. If a driver tries to overcorrect the steering, it will only cause him or her to slide more. In inclement weather, all drivers should increase their following distance to 8 to 10 seconds behind the vehicle in front of them. Experts also suggest that drivers avoid using cruise control in winter weather, since this takes full control of the car out of the driver’s hands.

Distracted Driving

Operating a motor vehicle requires the complete attention of the driver at all times. Looking down at a mobile device or adjusting the radio takes a motorist’s eyes off the road. Even if it is only for a few seconds, these types of distractions can cause a driver to lose control. Driving while impaired from the use of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous, since it impedes a driver’s reaction time, reduces hand/eye/foot coordination, and hinders the ability to make split-second decisions. In winter weather, it is even more critical that a driver remain alert and attentive behind the wheel. 

Call a Medina County Personal Injury Attorney 

Unfortunately, no matter how many measures you take for your own safety, it is impossible to control inexperienced or dangerous drivers around you. Car accidents are extremely common during the winter, and the resulting injuries can often very serious. At The Law Offices of Andrew M. Parker, LLC, we work with victims of vehicle collisions to help them receive the compensation that they deserve. If you or your loved one is hurt in a car crash this winter, contact our skilled Brunswick car accident lawyer at 330-725-4114. We offer free consultations in most cases. 

Sources:

https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/#.Xjr-5WhKiM8

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/winter/driving