Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers: Preparing for Winter Road Conditions

We all know that you cannot control the weather, and if even if you are someone who pays close attention to the weather channel, Mother Nature can be unpredictable. In the winter months, snow and ice storms often happen without warning, or end up being more severe than predicted. This can wreak havoc on roads and highways, putting drivers and passengers at risk of being seriously injured in a car accident. In order to safely navigate the winter roads, and arrive at their destination safely, the following precautions will help ensure a safe commute.

Before heading out during the winter months, always be sure to check the weather. If the forecast shows inclement weather, wait out the storm if possible. If you must travel, give yourself enough time to warm up the car before driving. Also, share your travel plans with a friend or family member in case you run into trouble.

Winterize Your Vehicle 

Extreme cold can take its toll on your car, so have a professional mechanic do a service check before traveling. Make sure to include the following vehicle systems:

• Brakes
• Ignition
• Battery
• Antifreeze level and freeze line
• Condition of tires
• Hoses and fan belts
• Spark plugs

How to Avoid a Car Crash in Maryland 

Road conditions can become dangerous unexpectedly, especially when it is dark and you do not see an icy patch on the road until it is too late. In circumstances like this, AAA offers the following tips:

• Do not use cruise control when driving in inclement weather
• Do not use your parking brake to stop or slow down
• When speeding up or slowing down, do so slowly
• Leave plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you
• Be aware of what type of brakes your car has. If you have anti-lock brakes, “pump” the brakes if you skid
• Avoid stopping when going up a hill
• Make sure you always have at least a half a tank of gas
• If you get stuck, tie a brightly colored cloth or piece of clothing to the antenna and call for help

Keep an Emergency Kit in the Car 

Particularly during the winter months, the National Safety Council recommends having the following items on hand:

• Tools needed to change a tire
• Fully inflated spare tire
• Jumper cables
• Salt or cat litter to help with tire traction
• Flashlight with new batteries
• First aid kit
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Warm blankets, mittens, socks, and hats
• Non-perishable food items like canned nuts, dried fruits, and plenty of water

Liability for Cold Weather Accidents in Baltimore

Obviously you cannot take Mother Nature to court, and it may seem unfair to be found at fault for losing control of your car due to ice or snow. However, as drivers, the law holds us responsible for taking extra precautions during inclement weather. If you are involved in a wreck, make sure you take pictures of the scene and call the police so that you can fill out an accident report. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you identify the negligent party and file a claim.

Baltimore Car Accidents Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Obtain Compensation for Victims of Car Accidents

 If you have been seriously injured in a car accident due to winter weather conditions, contact the Maryland car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Our experienced team will negotiate with the insurance company in order to reach the best possible outcome. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent personal injury victims throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.