Did you know that there are over 1 million weather-related crashes each year? For even the most experienced drivers, icy and snow-covered roads can be difficult to navigate.

It’s important that we all do our part to keep our roads safe. Here are some driving tips to help keep you safe on the roads this winter.

Common Winter Road Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Spin-Out Collisions

Spin-out collisions occur when some or all your tires lose traction of the road. When this happens, your impulse may be to steer in the opposite direction. Unfortunately, this can make the situation worse and cause you to flip.

If your vehicle veers out of your control, you’ll want to steer in the direction of the skid. Also, you’ll want to use caution when pressing on your gas or brake pedal. Pressing too hard on either pedal can cause your vehicle to lose traction.

Rear-end collisions

Did you know that when driving in the snow, it can take 10 times as long to stop your car? Driving too close to the vehicle in front of you increases your risk of rear-end collision.

To avoid a rear-end collision, keep at least 2 car lengths distance between you and the car in front of you. You’ll need at least 5 to 6 extra seconds to decelerate if the car in front of you decides to stop.

Lane Drifting

When driving in the snow, it can be difficult to tell where one lane begins and ends. This can be dangerous, especially if you veer into the path of oncoming traffic. Because of this, it’s best to stick to plowed and heavily traveled roadways, where the streets are often clearer.  For unplowed roadways, you’ll want to drive slowly along the tire tracks of those who drove before you.

Other Winter Driving Tips

Clear off your Car and Your Property

11 states have snow removal laws, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. This means that you could be held responsible for failing to clear snow and ice from your property.

As well, some states have strict mandates about clearing snow and ice from your vehicle. In New Hampshire, Jessica’s Law requires all drivers to clear off their vehicles before they hit the road.

Pack Winter Essentials in Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road, you’ll want to be sure that you have a few essentials on you, in the event on an emergency. These include (but are not limited to):

1. Warm clothing and blankets
2. First-Aid Kit
3. Flashlight and Matches
4. Non-perishable snacks

Avoid Cruise Control

AAA advises that you avoid using cruise control features during slippery conditions. This simple activity increases your awareness and allows you to take control of your speed, which helps prevent skids.

Be Cautious Around Snowplows

Snowplows play an important role in keeping winter roads safe. However, driving too near a snowplow can be dangerous. You should always keep your distance around snowplows, at least 200 feet. Also, you should never pass a plow on the right.

Stay Home!

It bears repeating that your risk for a road accident increases dramatically during inclement weather. Minimize your risk of road accidents by staying home if possible.

We hope we’ve helped you learn more about winter driving safety. And now we’d like to turn it over to you. Did you learn something new from this article? Or do have a question about your insurance policy? Leave a comment below or contact us at info@lapointeins.com.