If you’re like most people, driving is part of your daily routine. Getting behind the wheel might not seem any more consequential than brushing your teeth, but it’s important to remember that each time you get on the road, there’s a chance you could be involved in an accident.
Car accidents happen all year round, but cold temperatures and bad weather make the winter months even more hazardous. If you want to keep yourself and your family safe, take a look at some of the main causes of winter car crashes in Eagle River, Alaska.
Many (though not all) winter car crashes are directly tied to bad weather. In Eagle River, many winter accidents are caused by one or more of the following:
Poor Traction
Some people are more comfortable driving in snow and ice than others. However, even the most experienced driver can lose traction on an icy road. If your tires can’t adequately grip the road, turning and stopping become much harder.
Poor traction can cause car accidents even when a driver doesn’t lose control of the vehicle. On icy roads, a car’s stopping distance may be two to six times greater. Even if you brake well in advance of a hazard, it might not be sufficient to avoid an accident.
Visibility Problems
In the winter months, there are fewer daylight hours. Darkness, fog, and falling snow can all make it harder for drivers to see. Snow can also obscure road lines and other markings, which can cause accidents.
Driving Too Fast for Road Conditions
Many people forget that speed limits are set with ideal road conditions in mind. Drivers can (and should) adjust their speed to account for changes in the weather.
For example, if the speed limit on a rural road is 65 miles per hour, that doesn’t mean you should try to reach that speed when the road is covered in ice, you’re dealing with heavy snowfall, or visibility is poor. When in doubt, slow down!
Overconfidence in Your Vehicle
Four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles may make it easier to navigate icy roads. However, these vehicles aren’t immune to accidents. Some drivers are so confident in their vehicles’ capabilities that they take risks they otherwise wouldn’t.
In treacherous conditions, those risks may lead to accidents.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Having a well-maintained vehicle is important. Poor maintenance increases crash risk in general, but drivers are more likely to suffer the consequences in the winter. For example, underinflated tires and those with little tread can always cause problems.
On snowy or icy roads, they’re far more likely to make a driver lose control.
Tips To Stay Safe Behind the Wheel
Winter comes with unique hazards. Although there’s no way to guarantee you won’t be injured on the road, these safety tips may help:
- Regularly check your tire pressure and tread depth
- Increase your following distance in bad weather
- Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving
- Be especially cautious on bridges and in shady areas, as ice tends to accumulate faster in these areas
- Don’t use cruise control in icy areas
It’s also important to remain alert and engaged. Distracted driving is always dangerous, but when roads are slick or icy, the consequences can be even more devastating.
Keep Yourself Safe on Eagle River Roads This Winter
Although car and truck accidents can happen at any time of year, winter weather makes Eagle River’s roads even more treacherous. Just being aware of the hazards is an important step. When you understand seasonal dangers, stay prepared, and know your limits as a driver, you’ll be far more likely to make it safely through the winter.
If you or a loved one has been in an accident in Eagle River, Alaska, please contact Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We have two locations in Alaska, including Anchorage and Eagle River.
Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers – Anchorage
2525 Gambell St #410,
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 290-8980
Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers – Eagle River
13135 Old Glenn Hwy, Suite 101
Eagle River, AK 99577
(907) 802-4097
