Winters in Massachusetts are beautiful and festive. However, driving during the winter presents certain challenges that could lead to a car accident. These are the most common winter driving hazards.
Poor visibility
When it snows, you have limited visibility, which can impact your ability to safely drive. If you’re out during a snowstorm, you should slow your speed and give extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. This gives you more time to react if you need to suddenly stop. It can help you avoid a potential rear-end collision.
Snow and ice on your vehicle
Snow and ice on your vehicle can weigh you down and cause problems. It can fall onto your windshield and prevent you from seeing where you’re going. To prevent this and a crash, always clear snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. Use a snow brush and ice scraper and don’t turn on your windshield wipers until after everything is cleared away.
Black ice
During the winter, it’s normal for patches of black ice to be on the road. Often, it’s difficult to see it, which can result in driving over it and skidding out. You can lose control of your vehicle and hit a ditch or guardrail. However, you can avoid an accident with other vehicles while traveling at a safer, slower speed and traveling at a safe distance behind the car in front of you.
Wrong tires
Having the right tires is crucial when driving in wintry weather. The ones you used during the summer might be worn out from traveling over hot pavements and may lack the right level of traction. You should have snow tires or all-weather tires before hitting the road in the winter.
Low fuel
In the winter, your fuel can get too low thanks to frigid temperatures. Make sure your tank is full at all times; it can avoid a possible breakdown while you’re on the highway.
Although you can’t control the weather or the actions of other drivers, using common sense can help you stay safe on the road during winter.
