Staying Safe Behind the Wheel During Inclement Weather

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Baltimore car accident lawyers discuss staying safe behind the wheel during inclement weather.Even the most seasoned driver can end up skidding, hydroplaning, or losing control of their vehicle if weather conditions cause the roads to become slippery, or the motorist’s visibility is compromised. While it is always smart to check the weather report before hitting the road, particularly if it is a long drive, the weather can be unpredictable. That is why it is important to be prepared, whether you are driving through a downpour of rain in the summertime or heavy snowfall in the winter. If you are unable to avoid driving during adverse weather conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind so that you and other motorists on the road can avoid being injured in a serious car accident.

Driving on Wet Roads

Even when the roads are slightly wet, they can become slippery. Always leave room between you and the vehicle in front of you so that you have plenty of room to stop. Tires do not grip the roads well when it is raining, so leaving extra distance can help prevent a rear-end collision. During heavy rain, you may have limited visibility. Make sure that your headlights are turned on so that other vehicles can see you coming. Reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning, which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and avoid large puddles of water whenever possible.

Driving During a Snow or Ice Storm

Ideally, you should stay off the roads until the storm has passed and the roads have been plowed and salted. If you cannot avoid driving, plan on your commute taking twice as long as it normally does. Take your time and use extra caution. Test your brakes to make sure they are functioning properly and reduce your speed when turning a corner. Accelerating or decelerating too quickly can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. It is also extremely important to be aware of black ice, which is a thin layer of ice that is sometimes hard to see and can cause a vehicle to spin out of control. Look for areas in the road that appear to be slick or glossy and avoid those spots.

Driving in Foggy Conditions

Heavy fog can be very hazardous as it impairs your ability to see the road ahead. Ideally, you should pull over until the fog has lifted. If you must drive, do not use your high beams because they will make it more difficult for you to see the road ahead. Use the white line on the side of the road as your guide to help you stay in your lane and avoid oncoming traffic. Give yourself plenty of distance between you and other motorists and use your signal earlier than you normally would so that other motorists know you are turning.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Weather-Related Car Accidents

 If you were injured in a car accident during inclement weather, you are urged to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. We will discuss the details of you case with you and seek the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, we represent clients throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.