Driving in bad weather can be a nerve-wracking experience. Heavy rain, thick fog, snow and ice can throw some curveballs that make even the most seasoned drivers grip the steering wheel a little tighter.
Understanding how weather can impact road conditions is crucial for drivers to staying safe behind the wheel. This blog explores how inclement weather conditions can turn even the most well-maintained roads into potential hazards.
Inclement weather and road safety
Every year, the Department of Transportation records more than 5,891,000 car crashes, 21% of which are weather-related. These collisions occur in adverse weather and involve either rain, sleet, fog, snow or crosswinds. Some also took place on slick or slushy pavements.
From 2007 to 2016, this issue led to approximately 5,000 deaths and 418,000 injuries. These numbers highlight the devastating impact of inclement weather on road safety.
Poor weather conditions can also impact a car’s mobility on certain roads. On freeways, driving in winter and snow can reduce the speed of moving vehicles by up to 13%, while heavy downpours can reduce it by up to 40%.
Driving in bad weather
Driving in poor weather conditions is a risk that no one should take lightly. It is essential to exercise extreme caution when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Slow down, keep your distance from other cars and be prepared to adjust your driving to ever-changing conditions.
If you get in an accident due to poor weather conditions, consider consulting a legal professional. An experienced attorney may help you understand the complexities of the legal system and support you if you seek compensation for lost wages, injuries and other damages.