Unfortunately, life does not stop and wait for bad weather to pass by. Through rain, sleet and sometimes snow, we still have to drive to work, school or just to the supermarket to stock up on hot cocoa. However, driving through Waco or getting out on IH 35 in bad winter weather takes on a new level of danger when you have your kids in the backseat.
Before you find yourself driving through less than ideal conditions, take a few minutes to brush up on winter driving safety tips.
Keep your headlights on
Even during the daytime, in clear weather, you should drive with your headlights on to increase your visibility. This becomes even more important when you are driving in bad weather. Try to make it a habit to flip your lights on every time you get in the car.
Keep a safe distance
If you are already keeping three car lengths between you and the car in front, give yourself even more stopping distance by increasing this during bad weather. If the road is wet or icy, you will need more distance in order to come to a safe stop without rear-ending another vehicle.
Slow it down
When driving in bad weather, give yourself enough time to get to your destination so that you can drive at slower speeds. When the roads are slippery, it is much easier to lose control if you are driving too fast. This does not just mean more than the posted speed limit. In some cases, doing 10 miles per hour under the limit may still be too fast. Use your judgement to find a safe speed at which you can travel so that you reduce your risk of an accident.
Prepare your car
For winter weather driving, it is important to make sure your car is ready. This means checking your tires and ensuring the tread is in good condition and that they are properly inflated. Also, consider taking your car to your preferred mechanic to check the brakes and other systems that are vital to safe driving.
While the above tips can help you navigate the roads safely this winter, you cannot control what other drivers do. If you have been the victim of a negligent driver, you might be able to take legal action for your injuries and the damages to your car.
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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