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Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Winter Driving Tips

Avoid Chicago Car Accidents: Winter Driving Tips

Winter is here! That means all kinds of weather – freezing rain, ice, snow – and hazardous conditions that tend to cause car accidents. And while you can’t control the weather, you can control how carefully you drive in it to reduce the risk of car accidents.

Consumer Reports advises drivers to “make sure any scheduled maintenance is handled on schedule. A new survey by Consumer Reports shows that many motorists are postponing maintenance or repairs. The only thing worse than being stuck at the side of the road is being there in freezing rain when a regular maintenance item was neglected. Keeping your car update to date with maintenance will help to make it is reliable and safe.”

In addition to keeping your vehicle properly maintained, you also need to drive carefully. You may be liable for Chicago personal injury or wrongful death if you are driving recklessly – regardless of whether you are driving in the snow or other inclement weather. Here are five tips for driving carefully in winter weather conditions:

1. Before driving your vehicle, make sure all the ice and snow have been cleared – pay special attention to mirrors and windows.
2. Never drink or use drugs (even prescription drugs) and drive – regardless of weather conditions.
3. Never talk, text or use your phone while driving in winter weather conditions. Pull over if you need to use your cell phone.
4. Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. Slippery road conditions – particularly black ice – can make it difficult or impossible for you to stop short.
5. Follow the posted speed limit, particularly if it has been reduced due to inclement weather.

Following the above winter driving tips may help you avoid an accident, but if you are involved in a Chicago car crash while driving in the snow, contact a Chicago car accident attorney. They can help you determine what your next step should be.

DISCLAIMER: All information on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice. The Law Offices of Malman Law shall not be liable for any errors or inaccuracies contained herein, or any actions taken in reliance thereon.