Winter driving in Taylor, Michigan, comes with its own set of unique challenges. With snow, ice, and freezing temperatures becoming common in the colder months, roads can quickly turn hazardous for drivers. Slick, icy surfaces and poor visibility from snowstorms or early dusk make it more difficult to navigate the roads, increasing the risk of car accidents. Whether you're commuting to work, heading to the store, or simply running errands, winter conditions demand extra caution.

The winter months pose a heightened risk for slip-ups behind the wheel, and even experienced drivers can be caught off guard. It is crucial for everyone on the road to be prepared and take steps to stay safe during these months. Not only does winter driving require more careful attention to the road conditions, but it’s also important to understand how to handle yourself legally if an accident does occur.

Winter Driving Tips to Avoid Accidents

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

Importance of Winter Tires, Tire Pressure, and Proper Maintenance
One of the most important steps in preparing for winter driving is ensuring that your vehicle is equipped to handle cold weather. Winter tires provide better traction on snow and ice, making them a wise investment for anyone driving in the colder months. These tires are designed with special treads that grip better in icy conditions, reducing the risk of slipping and sliding.

Additionally, make sure to check your tire pressure regularly. Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, and underinflated tires can make it harder to maintain control of your vehicle. Ensure your brakes, headlights, and taillights are in good working order to help you stay visible and responsive in poor weather conditions.

Checking Antifreeze Levels, Windshield Wipers, and Brakes
It’s essential to check your antifreeze levels to prevent your engine from freezing in extreme cold. Similarly, ensure your windshield wipers are functioning properly, as snow and ice can quickly obscure your visibility. Consider switching to winter wiper fluid, which won’t freeze in colder temperatures.

Brakes should also be inspected, as stopping on icy or snowy roads requires optimal brake performance. Have a professional mechanic check your vehicle before the winter season starts to make sure all systems are ready for the challenges ahead.

Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
Even with all precautions, accidents can still happen. It’s wise to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, especially during the winter months. Items to include are blankets, a flashlight with extra batteries, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and a snow shovel. Having these items on hand can help you stay safe and comfortable if you’re stranded or caught in a winter storm.

Drive at Safe Speeds and Increase Following Distance

Adjusting Speed Based on Road Conditions
Even though speed limits may remain unchanged during winter months, it’s important to adjust your speed based on current road conditions. Snow, ice, and slush can dramatically reduce your vehicle’s traction, making it harder to stop and steer. Always drive slower than usual if the roads are slick, even if other drivers seem to be going at regular speeds.

Leave Extra Space Between Vehicles
The stopping distance on icy or snow-covered roads is longer than on dry roads, so always increase the space between your vehicle and the one ahead. In snowy or icy conditions, it may take several car lengths to come to a complete stop, so allowing extra room gives you more time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops.

Use Caution on Bridges, Overpasses, and Shaded Areas

Bridges and Overpasses Freeze Before Regular Roadways
Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than regular roads because they have air circulating around both the top and bottom, causing the surface temperature to drop quickly. Even if the main roads seem clear, be extra cautious on bridges, as they may be icy and slippery. Reduce your speed as you approach these areas and increase your awareness of road conditions.

Shaded Areas Remain Icy Longer
Shaded areas of the road, such as those under overpasses or near trees, tend to stay colder longer and can remain icy even after the sun has risen. These areas may not appear hazardous at first glance, but they are more likely to harbor dangerous black ice, which is nearly invisible to drivers. Always remain cautious and ready to adjust your speed in these areas.

Avoid Sudden Movements and Be Smooth with Braking

Sudden Braking or Sharp Turns Can Cause Loss of Control
On icy roads, making sharp turns or slamming on your brakes can cause you to lose traction and potentially spin out. To maintain control, it’s essential to make all movements smoothly and gradually. When turning, reduce your speed ahead of time and avoid making sudden directional changes. Similarly, when braking, gently apply pressure to the brake pedal rather than slamming it down.

Tips for Braking Gently and Making Smooth Turns
To ensure safety, use gentle and steady pressure on the brake pedal to avoid locking up your wheels. If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure; if not, pump the brakes gently to prevent skidding. Likewise, when making turns, do so smoothly and at a controlled speed to avoid losing control of your vehicle.

Know How to Handle Skidding

What to Do if You Begin to Skid
If you begin to skid on ice or snow, the first step is to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse and cause you to overcorrect. When you skid, it’s essential to steer gently in the direction you want to go, which is typically into the skid. For example, if the rear of your car is sliding to the right, turn the steering wheel to the right.

Ease Off the Gas
When skidding, you should also ease off the gas pedal and avoid applying the brakes suddenly. Abruptly pressing the brake pedal can worsen the skid and make it more difficult to regain control. Instead, gently lift your foot off the accelerator to reduce speed gradually.

Importance of Staying Calm and Avoiding Overcorrection
Avoid making quick or jerky movements when attempting to regain control. Overcorrecting the steering wheel or braking too hard can cause your vehicle to spin. Stay calm, focus on steering gently, and remember that most skids can be recovered if you handle them calmly and correctly.

What to Do After a Winter Driving Accident

Stay Calm and Safe

First Steps After an Accident
If you are involved in a winter driving accident, the first thing you should do is stay calm. Take a moment to assess the situation and ensure that you and your passengers are safe. Check for any injuries, both to yourself and others involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.

Move to a Safe Location if Possible
If you are able to do so safely, move your vehicle to a safe location. If your vehicle is blocking traffic or posing a risk of further accidents, try to move it to the shoulder of the road or to a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your situation. However, if the vehicle is too damaged or there are injuries, it is better to leave the vehicle where it is until help arrives.

Calling Emergency Services and Exchanging Information
Once you are safe, call emergency services to report the accident. Be sure to provide them with accurate information, including the location of the accident, the number of vehicles involved, and any injuries that have occurred. While waiting for law enforcement and emergency responders, exchange information with the other driver(s), including:

• Name, address, and phone number
• Driver's license number and insurance details
• Make, model, and color of vehicles involved

Document the Scene

Importance of Taking Photos of the Accident Scene
Documenting the accident scene is crucial, particularly in winter conditions, where weather factors like snow, ice, and poor visibility can be contributing factors. Take clear photos of:

• The overall accident scene, including vehicle positions and nearby road conditions.
• Any weather-related conditions, such as snow accumulation, icy patches, or slush on the road.
• Visible vehicle damage, skid marks, or obstacles that may have caused the accident.

Gathering Witness Statements and Reporting the Incident
If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and ask if they are willing to provide a statement about what they observed. Witnesses can offer valuable insight into the accident, especially in cases where it’s difficult to determine fault.

Make sure to report the accident to law enforcement. In many cases, an accident report filed by the police will be crucial in documenting the details of the crash and helping to clarify liability. Law enforcement may also issue a citation or provide insight into any violations that may have occurred during the accident.

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

Why It’s Important to Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
After a winter driving accident, it’s important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. A qualified lawyer can help you understand your rights, guide you through the insurance claims process, and ensure that you are fairly compensated for any damages. Winter driving accidents often involve multiple factors, including poor road conditions, vehicle malfunction, or driver error, and an experienced attorney can help investigate these aspects to build a strong case.

How Marko Law Can Help Marko Law specializes in car accident cases, including those caused by winter driving conditions. Their experienced legal team can help you secure compensation for:

• Medical bills: Including hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
• Lost wages: If you’re unable to work due to injuries sustained in the accident.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for emotional distress and diminished quality of life.
• Other damages: Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for additional losses, such as vehicle repair costs and out-of-pocket expenses.

The Importance of Safe Winter Driving

Winter driving in Taylor, Michigan, demands extra vigilance and preparation to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. The combination of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures creates hazardous conditions that can significantly increase the likelihood of accidents. By taking proactive steps—such as preparing your vehicle, adjusting your driving habits, and staying alert to road conditions—you can reduce the risk of a winter driving accident.

It's essential to ensure your vehicle is ready for the season by checking your tires, brakes, and wipers. Slowing down, leaving extra space between cars, and being cautious on bridges and shaded areas are key strategies to stay safe when driving on icy roads. Additionally, knowing how to react if you do get into a skid or encounter unexpected road conditions can make all the difference in preventing an accident.

In the unfortunate event of an accident, it's important to stay calm, document the scene, and consult with a legal professional to protect your rights and seek fair compensation for any damages or injuries sustained.

Contact Marko Law for Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has been involved in a winter driving accident in Taylor, Michigan, Marko Law is here to help. Their experienced car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Details:

• Phone: 1-833-MARKO-LAW or 1-313-777-7LAW
• Main Office: 220 W. Congress, 4th Floor, Detroit, MI 48226
• Website: www.markolaw.com