Colder weather is here in Atlanta, with some nights dipping below freezing. This means that there is the potential that the city will see wintery weather sometime over the next few months. Preparedness is key when it comes to driving, and this includes driving safely when roads are slick.
What driving behaviors should you avoid when winter weather strikes?
It is important to drive safely when winter weather strikes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers some tips for safe driving in ice and snow.
Distracted driving is a concern at any time of the year, but especially when roads are slick. If you are using your cell phone to text, talk or email while driving your hands are off the steering wheel and your eyes are off the road. This can be hazardous, as slick roads and reduced visibility mean you need to be aware of those around you so you can stop in time to avoid striking another vehicle.
Speeding is also especially dangerous in the wintertime. When you speed, it takes longer to slow down and come to a stop when necessary. However, slick roads mean it takes longer to come to a stop compared to when roads are dry. If you are speeding on icy roads, you could end up rear-ending someone or running through an intersection causing a collision.
Alcohol is a part of many holiday celebrations this time of year. While we all believe we would never drive while intoxicated, alcohol can impair your judgment and some people will get behind the wheel after having too much to drink. Alcohol affects your coordination, reaction time and you could even black out while driving. This is extremely dangerous at any time of year, but especially when the roads are already hazardous due to ice or snow.
Stay safe when driving year-round
We should avoid speeding, distracted driving and drunk driving at all times of the year. Winter weather makes driving conditions dangerous, so we should not compound these dangers through negligent driving. If you are struck by another vehicle this winter, you will want to determine if that driver was negligent and take the steps you need to in order to be fairly compensated.
