That time of year has come, which means drivers are bundling up before they even startup. New York winters are harsh and can include icy roads and thick snow covering the asphalt. Unfortunately, with all of the beauty that winter brings also comes a higher risk for accidents – and serious injury. Whether you have been driving in New York winters for decades or this is your first year, there are things you can do to avoid accidents.
Accelerate and Decelerate Slowly
Any abrupt movements on slick roads will force transference of weight – and cause your vehicle to skid. You can avoid skidding by applying your brakes lightly and never braking abruptly. Also, you will want to avoid accelerating and decelerating quickly, because your tires will not have the same grip they do when the roads are clear.
Inflate Tires to the Correct Pressure
Tires support the weight of your vehicle based on the air inside of them. When tire pressure is too low, your vehicle’s handling and safety is affected. Tire pressure decreases in the winter due to colder temperatures and to ensure dependable traction and great handling, you need to inflate them.
Increase Distance
Your distance in between cars in front of you needs to be increased. As a general rule, you should use the six-second rule – which means it should take you six seconds to pass the same point as the vehicle in front of you. While this may seem like an inconvenience, it ensures that you have a safe distance between you and the other vehicles so that you can stop when road conditions are slick or icy.
Do Not Use Cruise Control
Cruise control is not designed for winter weather. During the winter, you need to be able to handle your vehicle during sudden changes in road conditions. Also, a car will skid more easily with cruise control engaged – and continue to spin out of control.
Limit Your Distractions
Cell phones, radio controls and even the people in your car can all serve as distractions. When you are driving in winter weather or even while it is sunny outside, do what you can to limit your distractions. That means leaving your phone alone, ignoring messages, not adjusting the radio and not engaging in conversations with passengers when you should be focusing on the road ahead.
Injured During Winter Driving? Contact a NYC Car Accident Attorney
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident this winter, contact the attorneys at Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C. today. We can assist you with filing your claim and ensure you get the money and benefits you deserve for your injuries. To get started, schedule a free consultation at 1-516-342-2200 or fill out an online contact form with your questions.
