As the winter holidays approach, drivers face seasonal hazards that make wrecks much more likely than at other times of the year.
Of course, you want to keep yourself and your family safe on your holiday and everyday travels, so pay attention to the following tips for safer winter driving.
Beware of black ice
The temperatures here in Terre Haute are about to drop precipitously, as we bid adieu to the spate of Indian summer weather residents have been enjoying. That means that the possibility of black ice on the roads increases.
Black ice is particularly dangerous because of its invisibility. It typically looks just like the rest of the road or highway. But if you unknowingly hit a patch of it while you’re driving, you could lose traction with the road surface and go into a deadly skid.
Impaired drivers on the roads
Often, it’s not your own mistakes but those of other drivers who have overindulged in drink or drugs and then made the mistake of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated. The holidays entice many people to “have just one more” cocktail, beer or glass of bubbly — and that can cause accidents with injuries or even fatalities.
Lack of visibility
The sun sets earlier now, often sinking into the horizon just as commuters are making their way home from work. Not being able to see a changing traffic light can lead to a serious wreck.
If you are involved in a collision
If someone else’s negligence caused your accident and injuries, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your injuries, damages and other losses. Learning more about the personal injury laws of the state of Indiana can help you get through the recovery period and cover your medical bills.