Our region sees more than its fair share of adverse winter weather. According to research from the Wisconsin State Climatology Office, there is an average of 55.4 percent inches of snowfall each year in Eau Claire. In La Crosse, the annual average is 46.3. Driving during the winter season is especially challenging. It is imperative that all motorists in Wisconsin adjust for winter road conditions. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we are strong advocates for roadway safety. In this article, our Wisconsin car accident lawyers and Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyers provide a guide to safely driving in the snow and ice.
Car Crashes are More Likely to Occur in Winter Weather Conditions
Drivers in winter weather—whether it is snow, ice, or reduced visibility—can be extremely challenging. Many drivers in Wisconsin have experienced winter weather, but that certainly does not make it easy. Car crashes are significantly more likely during winter weather conditions. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates that approximately 115,000 people are hurt in winter weather road crashes each year. The rate of crashes spikes during adverse winter weather.
Snow, ice, and sleet severely impair road traction, making it difficult for vehicles to maintain control. Visibility is another critical issue, as snowstorms and fog can obscure drivers’ vision, increasing the risk of accidents. Another factor is that cold temperatures also affect tire performance and engine reliability. These issues make winter a potentially hazardous time driving.
Tips for Safely Driving in Snow and Ice in Wisconsin
- Clear Your Car
Is there snow or ice on your vehicle? If so, you need to clear it—all of it. An underappreciated risk factor of winter weather driving crashes is motorists leaving some snow or ice on their car before they start driving. Snow left on your vehicle can obstruct your view or fly off and endanger other drivers. Notably, motorists should also clear your car’s sensors and cameras to maintain the effectiveness of any driver-assist technology.
- Ensure You Have an Emergency Kit
Winter weather is inherently dangerous. Cold temperatures are inherently dangerous. With that in mind, drivers should always carry a winter-specific emergency kit in your car. Among other things, a winter weather emergency kit should include items like a shovel, windshield scraper, warm blankets, extra winter clothing, and non-perishable snacks. You should also add a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and a portable charger for your mobile devices. Even if you are a side driver, a winter weather crash—or a vehicle malfunction—could happen.
- Always Use Your Headlights
You need to use your headlights during winter weather conditions—even if it is the middle of the day. In snowy conditions and icy conditions, visibility decreases by a dramatic margin. Your headlights make it easier for you to see and they make it easier for other drivers to recognize your vehicle. Using your headlights is especially important during heavy snowfall, blowing snow, or foggy conditions. Headlights are a simple yet effective practice that improves safety.
- Slow Down
Slow down. Speeding not only makes crashes more likely, it makes them more dangerous. Drivers in Wisconsin need to be prepared to adjust their speed—potentially significantly so—in adverse winter weather conditions. Indeed, the ordinary speed limit may be incredibly dangerous to drive at during snowy or icy conditions. You should reduce your speed to account for decreased traction and increased stopping distances. Slowing down gives you more time to react if you need to stop suddenly or avoid an obstacle. Slow and steady is the safest way to drive in the winter.
- Be Easy on the Brakes
One key reason that you want to drive slow is that it will allow you to avoid/limit the need to hit the brakes. Avoid sudden stops and starts in icy conditions—as these can lead to skidding. If you need to slow down, you should try to very gently apply the brakes. Indeed, you want to do so both earlier and more gently than you normally would. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), you should understand how they work in the snow and ice. Try to keep steady pressure on the pedal if you need to stop in an emergency. When working properly, the ABS system will help to prevent the wheels from locking up.
- Avoid the Road If Too Dangerous
The safest driving tip for severe winter weather is to avoid driving altogether. If conditions look too treacherous, consider whether your trip is necessary or if it can be postponed. Keeping off the roads during the worst of the winter weather protects not only you but also other road users and emergency services personnel. All motorists in Wisconsin should stay informed about weather updates, road conditions, and travel advisories. The simple reality is that there are certain types of winter weather conditions that are too dangerous for even the most skilled and experienced of drivers. If the trip can wait, it should wait.
Why Trust Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler for Help With a Winter Weather Driving Crash
Navigating the aftermath of a serious motor vehicle collision is challenging—especially so for winter weather collisions. You cannot rely on any insurance company to look out for your rights or your interests after a major crash. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we put the rights and interests of injured victims first. Our history of verdicts and settlements demonstrate what we can do for our clients. An initial consultation with our Wisconsin winter weather car accident attorney is free, completely confidential, and carries zero additional obligations.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Wisconsin Auto Accident Lawyers and Wisconsin Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Wisconsin car accident attorneys and Wisconsin motorcycle accident lawyers fight hard to protect the rights of injured victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a crash in snowy or icy conditions, we are here to help. Give us a phone call at 608-784-4370 or connect with us online for a free, fully confidential case review. From our legal offices in Onalaska, Eau Claire, and La Crosse, our team handles winter weather crash claims throughout the wider region in Wisconsin.