The “Ber” months are nearly here again, and with them comes the cold. While you should avoid driving in snowstorms, travel is sometimes necessary. Snowstorms can range from moderate to severe, and massive blizzards can blind even the most experienced driver. However, if you follow these safety tips and drive with extra caution, you can avoid hurting other road users during the winter.
What risks are you taking when driving during snowstorms?
Wintertime poses a great deal of risks to the citizens of Wisconsin, particularly when they get behind the wheel. By driving in the snow, you assume these risks and expect other drivers to do so to keep the winter roads as safe as humanly possible. Here are some dangers of driving in the snow and what you can do to protect yourself and others:
- You know that driving in snow will be incredibly challenging and hazardous. Ensure your gas tank is full, and check if you have washer fluid, working headlights and taillights. You can also invest in snow tires, which can come in handy when driving in slippery conditions.
- Moderate snowstorms can turn into blinding blizzards in a matter of minutes, and whiteout conditions are common causes of collisions. It is not advisable to wait it out as you could freeze. Instead, drive slowly and keep yourself visible by turning on your headlights and hazard lights.
- Your car may hydroplane when it loses traction due to wetness in the road. When this happens, you should drive more slowly and avoid stepping on the gas or brakes.
- Drivers may not know the risks of driving in the snow. Try to stay a safe distance from other vehicles.
You have a duty to drive with reasonable care as a driver, and you know how significant due prudence is during the winter. Other drivers have the same responsibility, and when they do not understand the risks, they can cause serious damage and injuries to other road users.
Why drivers should be aware
Because driving in snow is dangerous, the probability of getting into a car accident is higher. Wisconsin operates under the comparative negligence rule. According to the law, you cannot receive compensation if you are more than 50% at fault for causing a motor vehicular accident. But you made sure your vehicle was safe to operate. You knew all the risks and took the crucial actions to avoid them. If another driver breached their duty of care to you and caused an accident, you have the right to hold them responsible.