Atlanta Personal Injury Lawyer Advises Safe Driving in Icy Weather
A few weeks ago Atlanta motorists were struggling with relatively rare weather conditions, as several inches of snow fell on much of Atlanta and northern Georgia. Those who aren’t prepared for driving on slick, snow covered streets must exercise extra caution.
One woman was killed in North Atlanta on interstate 75 when her car slid off the slippery roads. Icy roads have also been blamed for a multi vehicle accident involving 29 cars near Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson International Airport. Three people were injured in that crash.
Department of Transportation officials encourage people not to go out, unless it is absolutely necessary. Dozens of flights in and out of Atlanta were cancelled, and schools were shut down for several days. The snow fall here is nothing compared to the record breaking blizzard that raged through Washington, New Jersey and other parts of the country during Christmas time and left hundreds of accidents in its wake. But for those who are accustomed to sunny skies and clear visibility, these conditions can be intimidating.
As an Atlanta car accident lawyer, I would advise motorists to take special care while navigating snow covered streets.
- Avoid driving like transportation officials have advised, unless it’s an emergency, or absolutely essential. Many Altantans don’t have much experience driving on snow-covered streets, and a freak snow storm is not the right time to learn how to drive in bad weather.
- If you absolutely have to drive, drive at slow speeds.
- Remember that any potholes on the road will be covered by snow.
- Before you drive, check your tire pressure. The pressure can drop in freezing weather. Also check the tire tread depth.
- Clear all ice and snow from your vehicle, including car windows and roof.
- This will allow you to see clearly.
- Keep sufficient distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.
- If you feel your car is skidding, don’t slam on the brakes or step on the gas pedal in panic. Instead, pump your brakes, take your foot off the accelerator and steer till you regain control.
- Keep your headlights on. This will not only allow you to see the roads, but will allow other motorists to see your car.
- Make sure you’re updated on weather predictions to avoid getting caught in a possibly dangerous situation.
Jason Schultz is an Atlanta Personal Injury and Wrongful Death attorney helping victims of auto and truck accidents in the metro Atlanta area receive compensation for serious injuries.
