As we gear up in Cheshire for another season of nor’easters, you’re probably already getting ready for the increase in car accidents we see every single year. This includes standard two-vehicle crashes, multi-car pileups, and vehicles ending up in ditches. How can you protect yourself from becoming a statistic? Use these tips to minimize your accident risk.

No matter how much you prepare, you can’t control everything. If you’re involved in a crash this winter, it’s important to talk to a car accident attorney about your legal options. Call The Dodd Law Firm at 475-275-8649 to set up a consultation now.

Vehicle Maintenance

A big part of avoiding winter accidents is ensuring that your vehicle is as prepared for winter as it can be. You can start by checking out your tires. Look at the tire tread depth to check if your tires can handle the demands of snowy and icy roads. In Connecticut, it’s often better to switch entirely to winter tires rather than hoping that your regular tires will make it through. Make a point of checking your tire pressure on a regular basis to catch any leaks early.

You may also want to take your vehicle to a local mechanic to get a thorough check. Have them check your brakes and verify that they are ready for quick stops on icy roads. You may also ask them to test the battery, as cold weather can put a lot of strain on car batteries. If you need a replacement, it’s better to find out now than when you’re on the side of the highway with a dead vehicle.

Adjusting Your Driving

You just can’t drive the same in winter as you do in summer. Too many people forget what winter driving means in the eight months between winters, which is why accidents are so much more likely in the first few weeks of snowy weather. By being proactive and addressing your bad driving habits early, you can likely save yourself from being in a crash.

First, know that speeding is linked to increased accident rates and a greater likelihood of fatal accidents. This is especially dangerous in winter weather, where speeding makes it even harder to slow down and stop. Get in the habit of driving slightly slower than you need to be. You can always speed up if the roads are clear, but you never want to be in a position of driving too fast for conditions.

It’s also important to leave more space between you and other vehicles. It takes more time to stop on snowy roads. As you drive around Cheshire, try to leave more than a full car length between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Be particularly cautious while driving on bridges and overpasses. Because of the cold air that flows beneath them, these roads freeze more quickly than other roads. Expect slippery stretches.

Emergency Preparation

If you are involved in an accident, you should at least ensure that your family will be safe until you can get help. That’s why proper emergency preparation can save lives. Pack your vehicle up with everything you may need if you get stranded, including:

• Blankets

• Non-perishable food items

• Portable chargers

• Extra warm clothing, hats, and gloves

• Bottled water

• A flashlight and extra batteries

• A first aid kit

Whenever you go out, make sure your phone is fully charged. You may even want to share your location with loved ones via an app like Life360. Some phones allow you to share your location directly; Apple lets you share your location with other Apple users indefinitely. Should you get stranded, there’s a better chance that a loved one will be able to help you.

Keep yourself informed of all weather updates. The weather forecast can change rapidly, and checking frequently can help you adjust your plans as needed.

Choose The Dodd Law Firm for Your Car Accident Case

If you’re involved in a Cheshire car accident, it’s time to talk to the team at The Dodd Law Firm. Our personal injury attorneys can help investigate your crash and fight for compensation. Set up a consultation now by calling us at 475-275-8649 or reaching out online.