If you’re heading into California’s mountains for some skiing, heading north to Washington or Oregon, or even leaving our state altogether for a vacation, practicing safe driving in winter weather is key to protecting yourself and those in your vehicle, as well as others on the road. Here are a few tips for safer winter driving, courtesy of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
For protection on the roads:
- Buckle up. Seat belts are your best line of defense against serious injury or death in many accidents, especially rollover accidents. Seat belts are also designed to work in tandem with air bags, so for best protection from air bag systems, don’t forget your seat belt.
- Mind the kids. Children should be placed in car seats appropriate for their size, and the seats should be properly attached to the seats in the vehicle. Kids are always safest in the back seat.
To help prevent serious car accidents:
- Never drink and drive. If you take prescription or over the counter medications, make sure you know how they affect you before you drive.
- Slow down and increase the distance between your car and the one ahead, especially on snowy, icy, or wet pavement.
- Double-check for pedestrians at intersections and in other areas.
- Get plenty of rest before a trip to avoid sleepiness or fatigue behind the wheel. For longer trips, stop every two to three hours and rotate drivers if possible.
If you suffer a car accident this winter, the skilled San Jose car accident lawyers at Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys can help. For a free and confidential case evaluation, call us today at (800) 900-0863.