4 Tips Californians Should Know about Driving in the Snow
San Diego may not get any snow, but locals can still benefit from knowing how to drive in it. Whether you plan on heading north to ski over the holidays or east to meet up with family, it is wise to refresh your memory when it comes to driving in inclement weather.
Driving in the snow may be similar to driving in the rain in that both require you to reduce your speed accordingly, but there are significant differences between the two. When motorists fail to adjust their driving habits for wintry weather, catastrophic collisions can result. Unfortunately, this is one of the reasons why car accidents are so common around the holidays.
If you were hurt in a crash with a reckless driver who failed to exercise adequate caution for the road conditions, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Contact Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates to discuss your case and determine the best way to proceed.
Attorneys Jeffrey E. Estes and Alton J. Smith have a reputation for tough litigation and a strategy for winning substantial settlements and verdicts for their clients. Call 855-290-8080 to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in San Diego.
Read on to learn a few tips for driving in the snow if you plan on traveling to a colder climate this holiday season:
- Pack the Essentials
If you’re packing for a ski trip up north, make sure you put an ice scraper in the car so you can clear the windshield as needed upon reaching the destination. You should also pack a few blankets, water bottles, and nonperishable food items in the trunk to ensure you are prepared for the worst case scenario should you hit a snowstorm and get stranded en route.
- Accelerate Before Reaching Hills
USA TODAY reminds readers that the wheels can spin out if they step on the gas when driving up a hill in the snow. For this reason, it is important to build up some momentum before actually reaching a hill so it can carry you up and over the hump without much input from the gas pedal.
- Steer into the Skid
Skidding is common in snowy weather. If your car starts skidding, do not panic. Instead, take your foot off the gas and steer the car gently in the direction where you want to go. Do not slam on the brakes, as that could result in a more violent skid over which you have no control whatsoever.
- Maintain Your Vehicle
A properly maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle, so consider bringing your car to the mechanic for a tune up before heading out for the holidays. Additionally, make sure all your fluids are topped off and your tires are properly inflated.
Sadly, even the most cautious drivers who follow all of the above tips can find themselves in a collision with a reckless motorist. If you were hurt because someone failed to adjust his or her driving for the conditions, contact Jeffrey E. Estes & Associates.
We have recovered more than $150 million for our clients in successful settlements and verdicts. Call 855-290-8080 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car accident attorney in San Diego. If you want to learn more about collision claims in California, visit the USAttorneys website.
