Safe Driving On Winter Roads

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Snow, ice and cold are synonymous with winter in Ontario. Road conditions during winter months present a challenge for even the best drivers with car accidents increasing by as much as 5 percent. Canadian winters come early and stay around for a while, but you can become a better and safer driver during wintry weather by preparing yourself and your vehicle for it.

Keep your Car Ready for Winter Storms

Preparing your vehicle for winter driving should not be limited only to when you are planning a long trip. A mechanical breakdown or getting stuck in deep snow during a blizzard on your way to work could put you and your vehicle at risk. Some of the items to keep in your vehicle in the event of a winter emergency include:

• Booster cables
• Shovel
• Extra windshield washer fluid
• Safety vest
• Flashlight
• Road flares
• Safety vest
• Blanket
• Gloves and warm hat

Your vehicle should already be equipped with a first aid kit, but if it is not, now is the time to get one. Winter tires offer better traction than other types of tires for increased control on icy or snow covered roads.

Maintain Extra Space Between Vehicles

Following other vehicles too closely can lead to collisions even under the best driving conditions, but it can be especially dangerous on slippery roads. The recommendation to maintain a two-second distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you does not apply to winter driving when stopping distances on wet or snow- and ice-covered roads increase. Experts recommend at least doubling the distance when weather conditions call for it.

Keep in mind that ice and snow not only affects what goes on in front of your car. Slippery conditions cause vehicles to skid and swerve. Try to avoid riding next to other vehicles when snow or ice conditions could cause you and other drivers to lose control and crash into vehicles in adjacent lanes of travel.

Learn How to Drive Up Hills and Inclines

The hilly road you travel on each day without incident suddenly becomes a challenge when the covered with ice or snow. Apply steady pressure on the accelerator as you approach a hill and maintain that pressure until reaching the top to avoid causing tires to lose traction and spin.

Avoiding stopping on hills or inclined driveways and ramps where there is snow or ice. You might not be able to get your car going again without slipping and sliding.

Avoid Distractions While Driving

Driving while distracted is dangerous regardless of the time of year or the weather conditions, but it becomes even more of a risk when road conditions require your complete attention. Some of the distractions to avoid when driving under winter conditions include:

• Texting and talking on your cellphone
• Tuning the radio
• Talking to passengers or correcting children
• Reading maps or directions
• Eating and drinking
• Adjusting navigation system

Anything that takes your eyes and attention away from the road and the task of driving should be avoided. You should also avoid engaging in any activity that takes your hands off the steering wheel while your vehicle is in motion.

Ontario Personal Injury Lawyers

The personal injury lawyers at Diamond & Diamond have years of experience successfully handling claims for compensation by people suffering injuries in accidents caused by the negligent conduct of other parties. If you suffer an injury and need to file a claim, you should speak to one of our lawyers. Call the Diamond & Diamond 24/7 injury hotline at 1-800-567-HURT or visit our website to speak to someone now. We offer free consultations and case evaluations to injury victims throughout Ontario.