The recent winter storms hitting Eastern states like Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania have caused an onslaught of car accidents and road troubles. News coverage has shown traffic jams, close to 100 car pile ups, and abandoned vehicles left on the side of the road. Despite the latest advancements in safety features in our modern vehicles, weather is still one of the most dangerous hazardous to drivers.
What causes accidents on icy roads?
Whether you are caught in a blizzard or just trying to navigate the roads after an ice storm, it is crucial that you give 100% of your attention to the road. Thousands of deaths happen every year due to car accidents and a large number of those are due to distracted driving. On top of dangerous weather conditions, distracted driving can result in tragic and devastating car accidents.
Too many individuals take this condition lightly, assuming their car can handle the icy roads the same as regular roads. The recent storms and driving difficulties on the East coast should remind us that driving in severe snowy or icy weather can be a serious challenge. In many cases, accidents are caused by loss of vehicle control when sliding on ice. The root of this, however, can be seen in many other causes.
Some of the most common reasons for accidents on icy roads:
- Alcohol Consumption
- Texting / Talking on Phone
- Eating & Drinking
- Adjusting Music
- Talking to Other Passengers
- Using GPS
- Observing Previous Accidents ("Rubbernecking")
These basic tasks may seem doable when driving becomes a normal habit, but a majority of them are extremely dangerous and even illegal--such as consuming alcohol before driving. Even in clear weather, talking on the phone or texting can lead to serious accidents and injuries; however, when in icy conditions, you should be giving even more of your attention to the road by putting all distractions away.
How to Drive in Icy Conditions
Avoiding any small distractions is key when trying to improve driving safety during icy road conditions.
Other ways that you can avoid a dangerous accident include:
- Driving Slower
- Wearing a Seat Belt
- Watching the Weather Forecast
- Applying Light Brake Pressure
- Turning into a Slide
- Observing Surrounding Vehicles
- Increasing Following Distance
By going above and beyond your duty as a responsible and defensive driver, you can avoid causing or becoming involved in an accident on an icy road. Even though it may take you a few minutes longer to get to your destination, the sacrifice is worth it. If you would like more tips on driving during icy road conditions or would like to talk to our firm about your recent car accident, contact us today!