Being involved in any multi-car pileup, especially on icy roads, can be terrifying. It can lead to severe injuries and traumatize people to the extent they’re scared to get behind the wheel ever again. But if you follow these tips, you can avoid this type of wreck.
The law firm of Sand Law will be here to protect your rights if you’re hurt in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence. You can contact us online to schedule a free consultation, or you can give us a call at 651-291-7263.
Slow Down
One of the reasons so many people suffer severe injuries on slick roads is they don’t drive to the conditions. This means slowing down considerably when roads are icy. If they don’t, they can easily sideswipe other vehicles, causing them to run off the road and subject motorists to terrible consequences.
If you’re going too fast and see a pileup (like this one on HWY. 100) in front of you, then you probably won’t be able to stop your car in time to avoid the accident. But if you slow down, you’ll have much more time to react and stay out of trouble. It would help if you also considered turning your hazard lights on to warn other drivers of dangerous conditions.
Don’t Tailgate
Tailgating is one of the most common causes of vehicle accidents. Following too closely is even more hazardous during bad weather. Ensure you leave lots of room between yourself and other vehicles. You’ll have more space to react and avoid potential catastrophe if something goes wrong.
When drivers tailgate, that increases the chances that a multi-car pileup wreck will be even worse since other motorists won’t avoid adding to the chain reaction. By avoiding this dangerous behavior, you can increase the chances you’ll be able to stay out of a multi-car pileup and stay healthy in the process.
Pay Attention
Distracted driving is just as dangerous as tailgating. You should never use your smartphone while driving, nor should you eat or drink. Your focus must be solely on the road – especially if that road is slick. Always pay attention to the highway as well as other vehicles around you. When you’re aware of your surroundings, that will give you the time to react should conditions suddenly change.
Don’t Make Sudden Movements
Driving on icy roads can be treacherous and requires a different approach than driving on regular roads. Making sudden movements when driving on icy roads can be dangerous and increase the risk of accidents. When driving on ice, your vehicle’s tires have less grip on the road, and sudden movements such as quick turns, sudden acceleration, or hard braking can cause your car to lose traction and slide out of control.
Instead, it’s important to drive slowly and smoothly. You should accelerate and brake gradually, turn smoothly and avoid sudden lane changes. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for extra braking distance, and always be alert for any changes in road conditions. You’ll need to be even more careful at night when you might not be able to see patches of ice.
Maintain Your Vehicle for the Winter Months
Maintaining your vehicle during winter is crucial for safety and performance reasons. As the temperature drops, your vehicle’s mechanical components and fluids can be adversely affected, leading to potential breakdowns or accidents.
Performing regular maintenance tasks, such as checking the battery, antifreeze levels, and tire pressure, can prevent unexpected failures and ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the harsh winter weather conditions. Winter tires with good tread depth can also provide better traction on icy or snow-covered roads, improving overall safety.
Proper maintenance can also save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs and extending the lifespan of your vehicle. Additionally, a well-maintained vehicle with reliable heating and defrosting systems can provide a more comfortable driving experience during the colder months.
Reduce Damages with Defensive Driving
Following all of the above tips will not only help you stay out of a pileup, but it could also help you save a great deal of money. If you’re not in an accident, you won’t suffer an injury that could result in astronomical medical bills. Not only that, but you’ll also avoid serious property damage that could cost thousands of dollars to fix.
Stay in Your Vehicle
If you should be involved in a multi-car pileup, try to stay inside your vehicle unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire, or you believe your car will be at risk of being struck by another vehicle.
Remaining in your vehicle provides a barrier of protection against oncoming vehicles and debris. Exiting your vehicle can expose you to harm further, especially if other vehicles are approaching.
Secondly, emergency responders will likely need help finding and assisting you if you leave your vehicle. As scary as it may feel, staying inside your car increases your chances of being found and rescued quickly.
Hire an Experienced Multi-Car Pile Up Accident Attorney
Being involved in a multi-car pileup can be a traumatic physical and emotional experience. While your immediate concern may be to seek medical attention and ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers, it’s essential to understand that legal issues may arise following the accident.
Hiring an experienced attorney with extensive experience in car accident cases can be critical in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. An attorney can help you navigate complex legal procedures that can be overwhelming for someone who has never before dealt with such matters.
Determining liability can be challenging for a multi-car pileup since multiple parties may be involved. In cases of faulty parts or equipment, an attorney can investigate the accident and gather evidence. Then, they’ll identify all responsible parties, including negligent drivers, road construction companies, or even vehicle manufacturers.
An attorney can also help negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also provide valuable legal advice, protect your interests and represent you in court if necessary.
Contact Sand Law Today
Learn more about how we can help by using our online contact form or calling 651-291-7263 for a free case review.