Safe driving starts with preparation. Here, we offer winter care essentials, as well as tips for new drivers, to help you drive safely this winter season.
Winter in Maryland can bring unpredictable weather, from icy roads to heavy snowfall. Safe driving should always be a top priority for Maryland drivers. To help you navigate inclement weather, the Poole Law Group offers the following driving information to help you prepare for cold weather.
As a new driver in Maryland, take extra caution when driving in your first winter season. In addition to wearing your seatbelt and using your turn signals, make sure you always carry your driver’s license, registration, and insurance information. Reduce distractions while driving in cold temperatures, and, as always, avoid texting while driving. If you get into an accident that was not your fault, call The Poole Law Group, Maryland’s Car Accident Attorney, as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.
How To Drive on Snow or Ice
To safely drive in snow or ice, first ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires or tire chains. Check all fluids to make sure they are topped up and appropriate for cold temperatures. While driving, reduce your speed and increase your following distance to at least 8-10 seconds. Brake gently to prevent skidding. If you begin to skid, steer in the direction of the skid to regain traction, and avoid sudden movements or hard braking.
Pro Tip: To avoid confusion in the moments after an accident, put our number in your phone under “Maryland Car Accident Attorney”: 301-790-3600.
Winter Car Essentials
-
Prepare Your Motor Vehicle for Winter Weather
The Federal Highway Administration reports that 24% of weather-related accidents occur in the snow, slush, or ice. When preparing for extreme cold and winter storms, inspection is key. Always check your brakes, battery, tires, antifreeze, and windshield wipers before cold weather hits to ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition to handle freezing temperatures and icy roads. Avoiding breakdowns in cold weather is the first step to preparing for Maryland’s winter season. The safest vehicle is the most reliable vehicle!
-
Clear Snow and Ice Before Driving
It may seem unnecessary if you are only traveling a short distance — or if you are traveling familiar roads — but always take the time to remove snow and ice from your windows before attempting to drive. Winter driving often presents visibility challenges. Removing snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, lights, and roof not only maximizes your visibility but keeps your vehicle in compliance with Maryland law.
-
Pack an Emergency Aid Kit
Even with the best plan in place, accidents do happen. Just as you prepare your home for power outages, it’s a good idea to pack an emergency kit in case your car becomes stuck in extreme cold conditions. You may wish to include essentials like:
-
A portable cell phone charger
-
Warm clothing
-
A shovel
-
A blanket and a small pillow
-
Jumper cables
-
Flares
-
Flashlight
-
Carbon monoxide detector (carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when running your car in small spaces)
-
Snacks
-
Water
While it may seem unnecessary at the moment, having these items on hand can be lifesaving if you get stranded or into an accident with another driver.
What do I do if my car is stranded?
If your car becomes stranded, it’s generally best to stay with your car for shelter and signal distress with flares or a brightly colored cloth. Run the engine periodically to stay warm, but ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow.
Staying Safe on Maryland Roads During the Winter: Driving Tips
Whether this is your first or your 50th winter driving season, you are never too old to review Maryland’s Driver's Manual and reengage with our state’s driver safety guidelines. The Maryland Department of Transportation offers the acronym B-S-A-F-E, to remind drivers of appropriate behavior behind the wheel:
Buckle up.
Slow down – speeding kills.
Always drive sober.
Focus.
Everyone shares the road – everyone gets home.
From the US Department of Transportation:
“Each year, 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement and 15 percent happen during snowfall or sleet. Over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually. Every year, nearly 900 people are killed and nearly 76,000 people are injured in vehicle crashes during snowfall or sleet.”
As Maryland car accident attorneys, we strongly recommend following these guidelines whenever you are behind the wheel of your car. After more than three decades of helping people who have been injured in motor vehicle collisions, we also recommend that all Maryland drivers follow these safety tips:
Stay Informed and Prepared for Emergencies
The safest driver is the most informed driver. Before leaving your home, check the road conditions to make sure roads are open and safe. Use CHART Web, Maryland’s 511 Traveler Information Service, before heading out. Avoid driving during severe storms unless absolutely necessary. Finally, know what to do after a car accident, and keep the Poole Law Group number on hand for emergencies: 301-790-3600.
Obey the Speed Limit
Don’t let the thrill of having your driver’s license override your sense of caution. The single best advice for new drivers is to slow down. Drive in the slow lane while developing your road safety instincts. Increase your following distance to at least 5-6 seconds to allow for safe braking on icy roads. Use extra caution on bridges and ramps, as these areas freeze faster than regular roads.
Know What To Do If You Encounter Black Ice
Black ice can turn a seemingly safe road into a dangerous ice patch. In many cases, by the time you realize you are on black ice, it’s already too late to slow down and keep a safe stopping distance. If you feel your car skid, brake softly and steer in the direction of the skid; this will help you regain traction. Avoid overcorrecting or slamming on the brakes, as this can make your car movements even more unpredictable.
By following these tips, you can reduce risks and ensure safer travel during Maryland’s winter months.
Bonus Tip: Home Safety During Winter Months
Remember that winter preventative care includes taking precautions in and out of your vehicle. Keep your house steps and pathways free of ice; you may want to invest in slip-resistant mats to prevent slips, trips, and falls on your property.
Do you need help after a winter-weather accident? Call the Poole Law Group today for your free consultation: 301-790-3600.
