Winter’s Around the Corner — Here’s How to Stay Safe on the Road
Follow these safety tips when you drive this Winter
It’s hard to believe, but winter is almost here again. That means it’s time to review how to drive safely during the colder months, and this year it’s especially important to pay attention because so many people have done so little driving for so long. Even those who have had to travel daily for essential work may find the conditions different enough that winter driving becomes more difficult. Here are some reminders for staying safe while driving during Wisconsin’s winters.
Prepare Before You Go
Winter in this state isn’t a time for whimsical road trips. You have to prepare your car and yourself. Make sure you have things like emergency blankets, a working flashlight, some sand or litter should you get stuck in an icy spot, and a little non-perishable food and water. Ensure you have jumper cables, an ice scraper, extra anti-freeze, and also things like ice cleats or snow grips for your shoes if you have to get out and walk.
Check the weather and traffic reports each time before you leave. Keep your gas tank as full as possible, and if the weather report says bad weather is incoming, fill up out of precaution. You never know if you’ll have to take a long detour. Also, remember to get your winter tires put on!
If you need to warm up your car, don’t run the engine in a closed area, like a closed-up garage. that increases the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
On the Road
When you’re actually driving, keep your distance, go more slowly than you might think is OK, keep the cruise control off (so you have more immediate control of the car), brake carefully, and overall, don’t rush! Watch out for people darting into the street in bad weather, too. So much of road safety in winter relies on the simple tactic of just taking it easy and taking your time.
Despite everyone’s best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured in a car accident where weather was a factor, contact Eisenberg Law Offices at 608-256-8356. We can help you with legal actions resulting from the accident and your recovery time.