It’s 2012 and it’s time for a fresh start. Our Phoenix car accident attorneys and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) are asking motorists to make one of their New Year’s resolutions to be a safer driver. Drivers are urged to be cautious when driving through the state’s areas with the frigid winter weather. Ice and snow can greatly increase your chances for a serious accident if you’re not careful!Driving in snow and icy can be difficult even for the most seasoned of drivers. It’s always a good idea to review safe driving tips before heading out on snowy and icy roadways. Drivers are urged to check the DOTs Interactive Road Map before venturing out.
This map illustrates road delays, traffic patterns, weather conditions and more. You can also get this information by calling 511 or 1–888–411–ROAD. The better prepared you are, the less likely you are to get into a serious car accident in Arizona.
Winter Driving Safety Tips:
-Always keep your vehicle’s gas tank topped off. This means that you never want to let your fuel get too low. You want to be able to keep yourself warm for a substantial amount of time if you get stuck.
-Remember that 4-wheel drive doesn’t mean that you can stop quicker. It only means that you can accelerate more quickly.
-Never drive too close to the vehicle in front of you when the roads are snowy or icy. These conditions make the road slick and more difficult for you to stop your vehicle.
-Abide by the speed limit. You always want to adjust your driving habits to the weather conditions, which could mean slowing down even more.
-Leave with plenty of time. Allow yourself extra time to get where you need to go to avoid rushing.
-Make sure to carry emergency items with you, including a first-aid kit, some nonperishable foods, some bottled water and some blankets.
-If you get stuck, stay inside your vehicle. It’s safer inside the vehicle than on the side of the road. You can also shield yourself from the cold weather inside the vehicle, too.
-Stay away from snow plows. Allow these vehicles with plenty of room.
-Leave with a plan. Know where you’re going and how to get there before leaving the house. This will help to eliminate distractions such as road maps and GPS devices. If you get lost, ask a passenger to help you.
-If you don’t feel comfortable driving in the current weather conditions, pull over and wait for it to clear up.
-Never drink and drive.
-Always wear a seat belt.
We would also like to remind to you to perform a routine checkup on your vehicle before setting out in the winter weather. Make sure that your defroster and windshield wipers are working properly. Make sure that all fluids are fresh and full and that your car’s battery is working properly. Venturing out with a plan can help you to stay safe on the snowy roads of Arizona.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a Phoenix traffic accident, contact the Arizona injury attorneys at Abels & Annes for a free, no obligation consultation. Call 866-99-ABELS speak directly to a lawyer today. There is no fee unless you win.
More Blog Entries:
Distractions: A Top Cause for Car Accidents in Phoenix through Holidays, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, January 2, 2012
Hands-Free Cell Phones Dangerous, Causing Car Accidents in Phoenix and Elsewhere, says NSC, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, December 26, 2011