Some of the most beautiful areas of the Pacific Northwest are here in Washington State. The only snag is that in poor weather driving can be difficult, dangerous or even deadly. Getting to work, school or anywhere else can become far more dangerous in the rain, snow and on the icy roads. Unfortunately, not every driver drives safely, whatever the weather, and a driver speeding in rain, snow, or on icy roads may just be the cause of serious injuries or needless loss of life. At Cunnane Law we represent people who have been injured in auto accident cases, many of which happen in the winter months.
Driving Risks in Washington State
Driving in winter in Edmonds WA presents some unique challenges and risks. You will have to deal with the following dangers if you live in the area:
- Rainy weather driving. Traffic is slower than normal after a storm or even when it is raining, but some drivers insist on driving faster than the conditions allow, regardless of safety. Aggressive driving conduct results in vehicles losing control or hydroplaning and putting everyone on the road at risk of an accident.
- Holiday Traffic. Nothing is quite like holiday season traffic. With everyone dashing around trying to get the last-minute shopping done, or rushing home to join in with the festivities, causing weeks of almost unbearable, heavy traffic. One has to expect that, with the heavy traffic as well as the consumption of alcohol, accidents will inevitably happen.
- Fatigue. Driving long distances to be with family over the holidays results in a high number of exhausted drivers sharing the highways and byways. When drivers are tired, they make mistakes, and it has been proven that fatigued driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. Be constantly aware of the driving conduct of those around you on the road. Fall back, or safely get past a driver who is drifting out of the lane, speeding or any other dangerous behavior.
Winter Driving Tips.
Even though there are all the risks and dangers, avoiding driving is not possible for millions of Seattle area people who still need to commute even in winter. If you want to reduce the risk of an accident, follow these tips for winter driving:
- Make sure your car is in good working condition, check your fuel level before heading out to make sure you have enough fuel.
- Drive defensively. Anticipate and be watchful.
- Never, never, never text and drive. Keep watching the road ahead.
- Drive with great caution and leave extra room when following another vehicle.
- In bad weather conditions do not use cruise control.
- Make sure there is enough tread on your vehicle tires to be safe on wet/snowy roads.
- Slowdown in bad weather.
- Try to avoid speeding drivers, let them pass, and then drop back.
- If you plan to go over a mountain pass, have tire chains available in your car, and add a blanket and extra warm clothing, just in case.
While these winter driving tips will help keep you safe, unfortunately car crashes do happen. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car crash, you need a good personal injury and accident attorney to fight for your rights. Call Cunnane Law today to consult with us. We’re ready to help.
Note: This information was provided not for any specific claim and is written in broad and general terms and may not be the right path to follow for a particular claim or case. This information is not intended to create an attorney client relationship. It is always best to receive direct legal counsel for your legal issues. It is never too early to call the attorney, but it can be too late.