According to the Federal Highway Administration, almost a quarter of all car accidents are caused by adverse weather conditions, which include snow, fog, rain, sleet, severe crosswinds, and slick roads. Our Willens auto accident law firm Chicago explains that drivers face a variety of challenges during winter, and there are statistics to prove how dangerous it is to drive in winters.
- In the United States, over 70 percent of the roads are located in snowy regions, which get more than 5 inches of snow each year
- On average, Illinois experiences 5 severe winter storms each year
- Each year, almost 24 percent of weather related accident occur on snowy or icy pavements, and 15 percent occur during snowfall
- In Illinois, winter driving conditions cause on an average of 27,970 accidents each year
- In the United States, almost 900 people are killed and another 76,000 injured in accidents during sleet and snowfall
- In Illinois, winter weather related accidents cause an average of 4,318 injuries and 49 fatalities each year
It is important for residents to listen to weather reports and plan their travel accordingly. Drivers should avoid going out when the weather is bad. It is better to wait for the roads to be cleared and use public transport instead if possible.
If you must drive in bad weather, you should do so safely. Here are some winter driving safety tips from Illinois State Police, AAA, and the state Emergency Management Agency that can help avoid winter weather car accidents and injuries.
Before starting your travel
- Plan your travel well, and select both primary and alternate routes
- Check your tire pressure and tire tread
- Let someone know of your itinerary and travel routes
- Make sure your gas tank is at least half full
- Ensure that your car is in good condition
- Avoid traveling alone in inclement weather
On the Road
- Buckle up at all times
- Drive slowly, defensively and carefully. Accelerate and decelerate steadily.
- Keep an eye out for ice patches on overpasses and bridges
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Never slop on an incline
- Do not use cruise control on click roads
If your car breaks down
- Tie a bright colored cloth to the antenna or place it the top of a rolled window to alert other vehicles. If possible, keep the dome light on
- Stay with your car, and run the engine and heater for a short time
- Do not overexert yourself and try to dig your car out of snow
- Ensure that the exhaust pipe does not get clogged with snow
When traveling in winter weather, it is a good idea to carry a fully stocked winter storm survival kit in your car. If you get into an accident caused by a negligent driver, contact an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer at Willens Law Offices to learn more about your legal right to compensation. Call (312) 957-4166 today for a free consultation.
