Safely navigating New Hampshire roadways in the winter brings challenges due to the weather. But those risks increase considerably when drivers are distracted or exhibit other risky behavior or fail to maintain their vehicles properly.
Car maintenance, which includes choosing appropriate tires, is crucial year-round, but it takes on more significance during the winter months. Making the wrong choices can put you and others more at risk of being stranded or getting into a crash.
Tips for safe winter driving
Snowy and icy roads can be unnerving even for the most seasoned motorist. To be prepared, keep these suggestions in mind:
- Keep a full tank of gas
- Check the air pressure in your tires and make sure your tread is in good shape
- Accelerate gradually to avoid spinning out
- Allow longer braking distances and reduce your speed
- Don’t slam on the brakes if you drive an older vehicle without ABS (antilock braking system)
- Brake before turning and don’t accelerate while turning
- Avoid sudden actions in the middle of turning
- Be aware of icy conditions on bridges and overpasses
- If the rear of your vehicle slides, turn the wheel in the direction the back end is heading
- Don’t be overconfident if you have all-wheel or four-wheel drive
- Drive extra defensively during snowy or icy conditions
- Don’t pass snowplows
One second of carelessness can result in devastating consequences
Taking these steps to heart is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and others from significant injuries and property damage. Even fender-benders can cause significant emotional and physical trauma for victims.
If you are injured, it is advisable to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands how car crashes can lead to long-lasting and sometimes permanent repercussions. Your lawyer will fight for fair compensation so you can focus on your recovery.