What Precautions Should You Take When Driving in Ice and Snow?

Nashville has seen a stretch of freezing temperatures lately, and with that comes the threat of ice and snow. Both can and will cause crashes, especially when drivers don’t take the proper precautions. To reduce your risk this winter, keep these driving tips in mind:

• Reduce your speed—The best thing to do to prevent a winter crash is to drive slower than you normally would. Reducing your speed reduces your stopping distance, which is vital if ice is present. It also makes you less likely to lose control if you hit a patch of black ice.
• Increase your following distance—Keep plenty of distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you. If they suddenly slam on their brakes and you’re following too closely, you may be unable to slow down in time to avoid rear-ending them.
• Avoid ALL distractions—Distracted driving is always dangerous, but never more so than during inclement weather. Texting while driving is a no-no, but so is reaching for items, looking at your infotainment screen, or even rubbernecking when you pass an accident scene. Eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, mind on the task at hand—no exceptions!

At Ponce Law, our Nashville auto accident attorneys know that winter is a dangerous time in Tennessee. Although local road crews do a great job preparing for snow and ice and clearing it when it arrives, they can’t always hit all the roads. In addition, not all drivers take winter weather seriously, putting themselves and others at risk.

If you or someone you love is injured in a winter crash caused by someone else, we want to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.