Snow, ice, rain and fog can make winter driving perilous. According to the Federal Highway Administration, snow causes more than 200,000 crashes each year on average. When combined with reckless driving, winter weather can be particularly dangerous.
Adverse road conditions can make it difficult to predict the behaviors of other drivers. If another motorist is speeding, running a red light or otherwise behaving negligently, it is critical that you notice these behaviors and take evasive action. Fortunately, a few household items can improve your winter driving safety and help you avoid accidents with reckless drivers.
If you or a loved one was injured by another motorist, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids accident attorney can assess your crash, gather evidence and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf.
Call (319) 393-1020 to schedule a consultation. Until then, read on to learn five clever ways to stay safe on Iowa’s wintery roads:
1. Plastic Bags
Keeping your car ice- and snow-free is important for safe driving. In particular, clean side mirrors will allow you to survey the actions of other drivers, but these can be difficult to clean in the morning.
According to Reader’s Digest, you can prevent snow and ice buildup on side mirrors by placing plastic bags over them. Simply pull the bags off when you are ready to leave.
2. Socks
You can place socks over your windshield wipers to keep them from sticking to the windshield. This will save time and give you full functionality of the wipers when you need them most.
3. Cooking Spray
Car doors often get stuck in cold weather, but you can prevent this with a dose of cooking spray. Coat the rubber seals of your car doors with cooking spray at night, and in the morning, the doors will open smoothly.
4. Cat Litter
Foggy windows and mirrors can reduce visibility and distract the driver. However, placing absorbent cat litter or silica in your vehicle can absorb moisture in the air and prevent fog.
5. Credit Cards
It is important to keep your car’s windows free of ice at all times. If you are stuck without an ice scraper, then a credit card or gift card may do the trick.
These are just a few strategies that can keep you safe on Iowa’s wintery roads. You should also make sure your tires are properly inflated. Never drive fatigued, and avoid using the parking break in rainy, snowy or icy conditions. Finally, do not use cruise control on slick roads.
Unfortunately, nobody can control the actions of negligent motorists. A collision can lead to exorbitant medical bills, and many victims cannot return to work. This is where an injury lawyer may be able to help.
If you were injured by a negligent driver, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. An Iowa personal-injury attorney will assess your crash to determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. (319) 393-1020 to schedule a consultation.
