This winter, you may have various plans for getting out of the house. You may have normal circumstances due to work obligations, but you may also want to get away when possible for some relaxing time away from home. In any case, if you are hitting the roads this winter, it is important to be prepared.
Whether you have lived in Connecticut all your life or you have only recently moved to the state, you undoubtedly know how dangerous it can be to drive in winter weather conditions. Even if you have some experience driving in such conditions, ensuring that you have taken the proper safety measures before heading out is always a good idea.
How can you prepare?
Though many people think about how they need to adjust the way they drive during the winter on wet, snowy and icy roads, it is just as important to ensure that your vehicle is ready to make any journey you have in mind. Taking your vehicle in for maintenance, like an oil change and fluid check, could help prevent unexpected mechanical issues from putting you in a difficult spot this winter. Additionally, ensuring that your tires have the proper amount of tread and do not show uneven wear is wise.
You may also want to have an emergency kit packed in your vehicle just in case. According to statistics, only 8% of American drivers take this important precaution. Unfortunately, approximately 46% do not make any vehicle preparations at all for winter driving.
How dangerous are the roads?
Because so many people do not take the time to prep their vehicles for winter driving, you may find yourself on the road with drivers who have bald tires that could slide if they have to make a sudden stop or with drivers whose vehicles could experience mechanical issues in the middle of the road due to lack of winter maintenance. Unfortunately, these and many other problems could put you at risk of someone else causing an accident that leaves you injured.
Sadly, thousands upon thousands of people suffer injuries every year because of crashes that occur on icy and snowy roadways. If you find yourself injured after a reckless or negligent driver causes an accident on winter roads, you may have reason to seek compensation for the damages you suffer. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney about your exact ordeal may help you understand your available options.
