Winter is nearly here, and with the drop in temperatures, you’ve likely noticed an uptick in crashes around the neighborhood. Winter crashes aren’t that uncommon for a few reasons.
First, there’s the risk of slick roads. Even if it’s just raining, the chilled ground might be slicker than usual. Add to that the possibility of frost and ice, and you can see why some people have trouble stopping or with sliding out of control.
Another issue is the increase in holiday travel. With more people on the roads because of the holidays, you may see more instances of road rage, aggression or even distractions as people try to rush to get to their destinations and multitask while driving.
In one study, it was shown that rain and snow increase the risk of a fatal car crash by 34%. That’s not surprising, considering that snow and rain can make it harder to see and control your vehicle.
So, what can you do to help prevent crashes throughout the holiday season and the remainder of the winter months?
The first thing to do is to slow down. Conditions can be unpredictable, and you may not be able to see ice on the roads. Next, make sure you’re giving yourself enough time to get where you’re going, so you’re not feeling stressed as you drive. Finally, put down your distractions. You need to pay attention to the road and the drivers around you if you want to avoid a serious collision.
These are just a few things to think about throughout the winter. Be cautious, so you can get to your destination safely.
