Driving Safety Tips for Winter Weather Conditions in Michigan

And What to Do If You Are Injured in a Car Accident

Weather-related car accidents are not at all uncommon, especially across the state of Michigan. During the winter months, slushy, snowy, and icy conditions pose a significant danger to motorists, vehicle passengers, pedestrians, and others on the road. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, here are some driving safety tips for winter weather conditions and what to do if you are involved in a weather-related crash.

Injured in a winter-weather car accident? Contact The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. today. Our team of Michigan car accident lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us online today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Winter Weather Car Accident Statistics

The following are some alarming statistics on winter weather auto collisions.

• Over 70% of U.S. roads are located in cold, snowy regions that receive over five inches of snow annually.
• Each year, over 1,300 people die, and more than 116,000 people are injured in accidents involving snowy, slushy, or icy conditions.
• The state of Michigan reported 78 fatal crashes and nearly 36,000 injury crashes due to wintery conditions during the 2021-22 season.
• It also reported that in 2022, 13% of all Michigan motor vehicle accidents occurred on roads covered in snow, ice, and slush.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe in Winter Road Conditions

The following are steps you can take to stay safe when driving in slushy, snowy, or icy conditions.

Prepare your vehicle - Before winter arrives, get your vehicle winter-ready. Check your battery, antifreeze levels, heater, defroster, wipers, tires, and brakes.

Keep an emergency winter weather kit - Your emergency kit should include a snow shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and snacks.

Use de-icing wiper fluid - Regular windshield fluid can freeze in the winter, so make sure to use a winter blend that is designed to work in freezing temperatures.

Clear ice and snow from your car - Before driving, remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, including the roof, lights, and windows, to ensure adequate visibility and prevent snow or ice from flying off and putting others at risk.

Drive at a safe speed - Icy and snowy roads can make driving hazardous. Reduce your speed and allow three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.

Avoid using cruise control -  In winter conditions, you want to maintain full control of your vehicle at all times, so avoid using cruise control on icy surfaces.

Know what to do if you start to lose control - If your vehicle starts to skid, remain calm. Ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go. Do not slam on your brakes as this will likely make the skid worse.

Turn on your headlights - Even during the day, using your headlights can help other drivers see your vehicle during snowstorms or in cloudy, foggy, or snowy weather.

Pre-plan your route - Before you set out, check the weather and traffic reports. Plan your route accordingly, and share your estimated time of arrival with others.

Be especially cautious when traveling over bridges and overpasses - These areas freeze first and can be deceptively icy. Approach them with caution and avoid sudden changes in your speed or direction.

Stay home if you can - The best way to avoid winter driving hazards is to simply stay off the roads. If you don’t need to go out, it is best to remain safely at home.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Wintery Car Accident

After a weather-related crash, be sure to take the following steps to ensure your safety and protect your right to compensation.

Get to safety - If possible, get yourself and others to the side of the road and out of the path of oncoming cars.

Call for help - Call 911 to report the accident and ask for emergency personnel if there are any injuries.

Exchange contact information - Get the name, contact information, and insurance information of all parties involved. Look for any eyewitnesses and get their information as well.

Document the scene - Take photos of the accident scene as well as the damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved.

See a doctor - To ensure your injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Talk to a lawyer - After an accident, you might be entitled to compensation. Speaking with a car accident attorney will help you determine if you should file a claim.

Contact The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C.

Being involved in a car accident is a frightening experience. That is why it is best to take steps to minimize your chances of a winter weather accident.

If you were involved in an accident in snowy, icy conditions, contact our experienced car accident lawyers in Michigan. We will discuss the details of your crash and determine whether you have the right to seek compensation. Contact us online today to arrange a free case review.