Driving in the Winter Can be Dangerous

While many of us look forward to the holiday season as a time to reconnect with family members and celebrate traditions, it can also be a dangerous time of year to drive. In fact, the latter months of the year are some of the most dangerous for drivers in Georgia. Read on to learn more about the dangers of driving during the fall months.

Shorter Days 

During the fall, we experience shorter days and fewer daylight hours, so it’s a lot more likely that drivers will end up driving in the dark, which notoriously increases a person’s chances of being involved in an accident. With reduced visibility, drivers simply aren’t always able to avoid certain hazards, like other negligent drivers and even wildlife. It’s also more difficult to see traffic signs and signals, leading to an increase in the chances of being involved in a wrong-way crash.

Slick Roads 

Another reason for the high number of car accidents during the fall months is the wet road surfaces. Inclement weather isn’t uncommon during October and November and this, combined with the wet leaves that pile up during this time of year create a perilous driving surface. With little traction, vehicles are more likely to skid out of control and strike other vehicles, objects, or pedestrians. While changing your tires and driving carefully is a good way to avoid this, it is by no means a guarantee of safety.

Driving Under the Influence 

There are also a few big holidays during the autumn months, including Halloween and Thanksgiving. As with most holidays, there is typically an uptick in the number of accidents related to intoxication during these months. Other motorists should be sure to keep this in mind and remain vigilant for signs that a driver is under the influence.

Cold Weather 

The autumn months also see a significant drop in temperature, which means that there may be sudden winter storms, icy roadways, and fog. Besides affecting the weather, however, this drop in temperature can also result in a loss of air pressure in a driver’s tires. Not only can this lead to excessive wear on the tires, it can also result in a loss of control of the vehicle. To avoid this, be sure to check the air pressure in your tires regularly, especially during the colder months. It’s also a good idea to check on your battery, wiper blades, and headlights at this time, the proper functioning of which is critical to avoiding car accidents in the autumn.

Helping Tampa Car Accident Victims for Nearly 40 Years 

At Anderson & Anderson, we are well aware of the physical, emotional, and financial toll that accidents can take on victims and their families, especially amongst those who weren’t at fault for their crashes. Fortunately, it is often possible for injured parties to recover compensation for their losses by filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. Please call 813-251-0072 to discuss your case with one of our experienced Tampa car accident lawyers today.

Sources: 

penndot.pa.gov/TravelInPA/Safety/TrafficSafetyAndDriverTopics/Pages/Fall-Driving.aspx

cbs4indy.com/news/study-fall-is-most-dangerous-driving-season/