Driving during the winter months in Ohio is very different than driving during any other season. Motorists have an increased risk of crashing in the winter and may be vulnerable in scenarios where their vehicles stop working.
There are several important tips that people should follow to enhance their personal safety while traveling this winter in Ohio. What do people need to know about winter road safety?
Vehicles require more attention
Many motorists have a habit of scheduling an early winter or late fall tune-up performed by a mechanic they trust. They change their tires or inflate them more to account for colder weather. They replace their wiper blades, tune up their brakes and otherwise ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition.
Drivers may also want to carry winter weather supplies to keep themselves safe in case they end up in a crash or get stranded. They may want to carry supplies to keep them warm while waiting for help and ways to draw attention while stranded, such as flares or signs.
Driving adjustments are necessary
There are several ways that people need to change their driving habits for optimal safety in the winter. Generally, they need to check weather reports and road condition updates to plan a safe route.
They may need to leave earlier to safely reach their destinations. People generally need to slow down and increase their following distance in the winter, which means giving themselves more time for travel as well.
Avoiding all forms of chemical impairments is also crucial. While people may want to drink around the holidays, driving after drinking is especially dangerous in snowy or icy conditions. Drivers need to be on the lookout for first responders and must follow the move-over law that requires them to merge into another lane when there are emergency vehicles in the street.
They may also want to be more defensive in their driving. Defensive driving entails treating other people as a potential source of risk and adjusting habits accordingly. If people end up in crashes despite their best efforts, they may need help pursuing compensation.
Discussing the circumstances of a car crash with the team at the Kollin Firm can help people better understand their rights to compensation. Both insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits may help people cover the costs of a weather-related wreck.