Winter in Atlanta is different than in many other areas of the country. Freezing temperatures and snowstorms are rare here. It’s uncommon for our drivers to face the challenges of commuting in severe weather. And that’s all the more reason to be prepared when the occasional snowfall and ice storms hit.
Winter storms and bad road conditions are a factor in many auto accidents. While some collisions are unavoidable, many can be prevented through safe driving practices.
Staying Safe on Icy Roads
The main thing to keep in mind when driving on an icy road is that there’s less friction for your tires, so stopping will take longer. The posted speed limit may not be applicable in icy conditions; depending on how many cars are around, visibility, and other factors, you may want to drive under the speed limit.
Here are some additional ways to be safe on the road in winter:
- Don’t tailgate: You shouldn't be tailgating anyway, but this is an especially dangerous practice when roads are icy.
- Make sure your tires have enough tread: It's important to have tires with the appropriate amount of tread to maintain control of your car on icy roads.
- Watch out for bridges and ramps: These freeze over faster than regular roads, and due caution should be exercised when driving over them.
- Don’t drive in a snowstorm: If possible, you should avoid driving in heavy snow. Poor visibility and sloppy road conditions dramatically increase your chances of having a car accident.
What To Do if You Get Hurt in a Winter Car Accident
Even if you drive as safely as possible, there’s still a chance that you could be injured in a car accident. If you were hit by a reckless and irresponsible driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical treatment for injuries
- Lost past and future wages
- Lost income potential due to disability
- Pain and suffering
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident on an icy road, don't hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Humberto Izquierdo, Jr., PC at 770-888-8901 for your free consultation. Our lawyers and staff are bilingual in Spanish and English, and we will fight for your right to compensation. We serve clients in Marietta, Cumming, and other areas of greater Atlanta, Georgia.