Temps are cooling, and a snowy winter, with multiple polar vortexes, is predicted. With the past couple of winters bringing less than average snowfall, it’s easy to forget winter driving is distinct from the rest of the year. It is important to be prepared for when you’re inevitably caught in a storm.
Slow down & eliminate distractions.
The number one tip when driving in snow and ice is to slow down. When weather changes and visibility is reduced, you need to protect your reaction time. Sudden shifts in traffic and road conditions are frequent in winter weather. What could have been a minor accident can be made much worse when unsafe speeds are involved.
Check your tires.
Old worn-out tires make your vehicle less capable of handling winter driving conditions. The simplest way to check the tread of your tires is the “penny test.” Insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head pointing down. If the tread depth covers the top of his head, you likely have adequate tread. If, when the penny is pushed all the way in, you can still see the top of Lincoln’s head, you should replace your tires as soon as possible. This test should be done in several spots on each tire. Also, check your tire pressure. Properly inflated tires ensure the tires perform their best in tricky weather.
Pack emergency supplies.
If you find yourself in a winter fender-bender or spin-out, you’ll be much better off if you have a few supplies in your vehicle.
- Hat & gloves
- Charged portable battery pack
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Jumper cables
- Sand or kitty litter (provides traction in a spinout)
- Shovel
- Blankets
- Hand warmers
No matter how many precautions you take, there is always a chance you could end up in an accident. What you do after an accident is as important as steps you took to prevent one.
Exchanging contact and insurance information with the other driver.
Minnesota is a no-fault system, meaning your own insurance pays for medical bills and lost wages up to a limit, regardless of which driver is at fault. This system allows basic claims to be processed more quickly. However, if you are more severely injured or accrue more than $4,000 in medical expenses, you can then move beyond the no-fault system and file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.
Get immediate medical care.
Seeing a doctor will protect your health and allow you to document accident-related injuries. Your doctors will provide the documentation necessary for your car accident claim, and any lawsuit that you and your lawyer pursue. Additionally, getting quality medical care will allow you to mitigate pain, work towards recovery, and protect yourself from worsening symptoms or new health problems.
Consult with a car accident attorney.
Not every winter fender-bender requires an attorney, but if you sustain even minor injuries, protecting yourself should be your number one priority. A no obligation consultation with an attorney is free peace of mind.
Car accident victims often lack clear direction after a collision. Hiring a lawyer will ensure that someone can move your claim or lawsuit forward as quickly as possible, so you can focus on your recovery. Your attorney will take your case off your hands so your sole focus can be healing from accident-related injuries. Having an attorney is a protective measure. Your lawyer actively advocates for your financial recovery and plays a pivotal role in safeguarding against potential rights violations that can undermine your case’s strength.
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a vehicle crash someone else caused, the personal injury attorneys at Fields Injury Law are here for you, and we don’t charge any fees unless we help you recover compensation.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your specific situation.
