A massive snowstorm is hammering the State of Connecticut for the next several hours dropping 1-2 inches of snow per hour in some areas of Connecticut. Governor Ned Lamont announced several orders mandating a tractor-trailer ban and advising Connecticut drivers to stay home and avoid the treacherous road conditions. Although snowfalls welcome winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, significant snowfall accumulation puts a heavy burden on state DOT to get the roads clear and safe for commuting. To do your part, keep off the roads to best avoid an accident.
When it snows and you have no option but to travel there are some key safety measures you should take to arrive at your destination safely. Although COVID-19 has offered new opportunities for employers and schools to work remotely, this may not be the case for every worker during winter snowstorms. If you’re faced with traveling in today’s winter storm, our office recommends you keep the following tips in mind. In the case that you find yourself in an accident, do not hesitate to call our experienced team of Personal Injury attorneys to secure the compensation you deserve. We understand what it takes to deliver personable results that are backed by decades of trust and experience. Call our firm today.
Stay Home If You Can
Traveling in a winter storm when you don’t have to travel for medical or employment reasons is an absolute no-no. Take this time to relax and enjoy the snowfall, and perhaps binge that Netflix show you’ve always wanted! Don’t take unnecessary risks and put your loved ones in danger. If you have to go out, bring a snack, blanket, and safety equipment in case you get stuck. Keep these tips in mind before going out!
Reduce Your Speed
Feeling overconfident in your vehicle’s performance in winter conditions will cost you. No matter if you drive a large truck, SUV, or sedan you should always exercise caution when it comes to your speed. You should reduce your speed by at least half, and when visibility is poor turn on your hazard lights. Most accidents in winter storms are caused by over speeding when weather conditions don’t permit. Your vehicle’s tires are gripping slick surfaces and have less traction, so when you speed your vehicle will be unable to keep up. Ensure you keep a significant amount of distance between other automobiles Don’t take the risk, you don’t want to deal with an auto-related injury.
Braking on Slick Roads
Braking your vehicle in poor road conditions can be tricky. Your vehicle doesn’t work the same when it snows, so you should be fully prepared to take a different approach when you drive. When going up a steep hill, you should ensure you have enough speed to go up the hill, while avoiding braking. This can especially be the case for two-wheel-drive cars. In the case your vehicle is two-wheel drive take an alternate route with the least amount of hills or you may risk getting stuck. When approaching a downhill, reduce your speed beforehand. Never slam your brakes going down a hill in slick conditions. It’s best to stay home to avoid any of the above circumstances.
Shoveling Snow
Avoid shoveling snow near roadways when snow is falling. Depending on the visibility, you may not be visible to drivers when clearing the road. Do your part in clearing sidewalks and spreading sand or salt to melt ice. If you slip and fall in a parking lot with minimal treatment and the like, call our firm immediately. If possible ensure you get witness statements and take pictures.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need help, ensure you call emergency services immediately (911).
The Law Offices of James A. Welcome is committed to the safety of our local communities in Connecticut. When faced with an auto accident injury claim, you need a partner by your side to secure the just compensation you deserve with the least amount of stress to you. After an accident, your priority should be to recover and get your life back to normal. Our goal is to get you there without the hassle of working with inexperienced legal representatives who never really work on your behalf. Want justice? Call our team today at (203) 753-7300.