Salt trucks were out prepping highways overnight in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in preparation for what may be our first real blast of winter weather. Are you and the other drivers in your home ready for the possibility of slick, icy or even snowy roads?
As Texans, we don’t get much practice driving on slick roads, so it’s a good time to be reminded that winter weather can make driving conditions unpredictable and dangerous. Take some time to review these winter weather driving safety tips from the Texas Department of Transportation.
Dangerous conditions to watch for:
- Loss of pavement friction due to wet, snow-covered or icy conditions;
- Restricted visibility due to fog, falling rain or vehicle spray;
- Lane obstruction due to standing water or plowed or blowing snow; and
- Infrastructure damage (such as a washed-out road).
Source: Pivotal Weather
Source: Pivotal Weather
If you must get out on the roads in these conditions, follow these driving safety tips:
- Clear off all snow and ice from your vehicle prior to driving. Snow and ice blowing off vehicles can cause visibility hazards for other drivers.
- Slow down. Keep in mind that speed limits are set based on normal road conditions. Winter weather makes the road conditions unpredictable, so give yourself some extra time.
- Increase following distance. On ice or snow, TxDOT recommends maintaining a following distance at least three times the normal following distance.
- Stay back at least 200 feet from snow removal equipment.
- Use extra caution on bridges, ramps, overpasses, and shaded areas. These areas are the first to freeze even when the roads around them are only wet.
- Don’t slam on your brakes. If you start to slide, gently ease off the gas pedal or brakes and turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid until you regain control.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with gloves, a blanket, flashlight, snacks, and a phone charger in the event you get stuck or are involved in an accident and have to wait while help arrives.
In the event you are involved in a car accident on icy or snowy roads, follow the same protocol you would in any weather. Turn off your car engine and turn on hazard lights; do not leave the scene of the accident; call 9-1-1; exchange information; photograph and document the accident; and ask the police to file an accident report.
Hit by another car in this icy weather? Reach Out to the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare.
If you’ve been involved in a wreck on icy roads in Texas, it can be a confusing and challenging experience to know who is to blame for your accident. However, with the guidance of experienced Dallas car wreck lawyers from the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, you can navigate the legal process and determine if you have a case.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation with one of our Dallas Car Wreck Lawyers today.
