Winter Road Safety: Watch Out for These Hazards

From slippery roads to poor visibility, winter conditions can be challenging to even the most experienced drivers. However, given that most of the country lies in snowy regions, it is almost inevitable that you will hit the road in these conditions.

With the increased hazards present in winter, it is important to be extra vigilant whenever you drive in such circumstances. Outlined below are some of the risks you should be wary of.

Reduced Ability to Stop

The icy road conditions highly reduce your vehicle’s ability to come to a sudden stop. Even with perfectly working brakes, a sudden stop is not guaranteed as cars can skid over ice, which could result in a crash. Therefore, it is essential to observe the speed limits and drive at a pace that matches the road conditions.

Reduced Visibility

In extreme winter conditions, a driver’s visibility is significantly reduced. This can invite disaster since you cannot see even the road hazards you are supposed to avoid. Furthermore, reduced visibility means that you are invisible to other drivers.

Use your headlights when driving in snowy conditions, and if your visibility is close to nil, it is advisable to pull over at a safe location and wait for the weather to improve.

Low Tire Tread and Pressure

The low temperatures over winter usually reduce the pressure of your car tires. This means that you may be driving with improperly inflated tires which can lead to blowouts and reduced traction. It is advisable to check the air pressure regularly and replace the worn-out tires.

Lastly, it is crucial to be prepared for any eventualities. No matter the steps you may take to prevent an accident, another driver’s negligence can lead to one. In that case, you need to be aware of the steps to take toward getting compensation for damage to property or any injuries suffered due to negligence.