Road users in New Hampshire encounter a number of safety hazards each day. Often, such dangers are created by the behavior of other road users. Additionally, hazards may vary according to the weather at the time.
During the colder seasons, visibility can present a unique challenge. Impaired vision when operating a vehicle has the potential to cause a serious accident. As a result, it may be in your best interests to consider ways that visibility can be improved during winter. Outlined below are three safety methods for driving in low-visibility conditions.
Take familiar routes
Taking some extra time to plan your journey could significantly improve your safety. Crashes are frequently caused by obstacles that were unexpected. Having familiarity with your surroundings can help to diminish the chances of you running into something that had not been anticipated. On a more familiar route, you will be better placed to focus on your driving, other road users, and pedestrians. Furthermore, if visibility becomes so impaired that driving is simply too dangerous, you are more likely to know the safe spots to pull over.
Minimize distractions
Distracted driving is very dangerous at any time. However, this is especially the case during the colder months. Ensuring that distractions such as cell phones and radios are kept to a minimum will greatly improve your safety. When visibility is obstructed, it is vital that your focus remains solely on the road.
Adjust your speed accordingly
In harsh conditions, it may be necessary to reduce your speed. If snow or ice is on the road surface, then your braking distance will be much longer than usual. Also, if visibility is impaired by fog, rain, or drifting snow, you might take longer to notice the vehicle in front of you.
Driving in low visibility can be challenging, but the above measures should help to keep you safe. In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a road traffic accident, there may be legal options open to you.