Winter weather arrived with a vengeance in the Garden State, bringing bitter cold and snow throughout the region. The combination of freezing temperatures and light precipitation has made road conditions hazardous, resulting in multi-vehicle accidents and recent speed restrictions on several New Jersey bridges as well as the Garden State Parkway and New Jersey Turnpike. Colder than normal temperatures are expected to continue well into the New Year, so it is best to be prepared for the season by following a few safety measures.
Light snow is slippery
A light dusting of snow makes for a pretty picture. It also makes for very slippery roadways and sidewalks. Don’t be fooled by the inch or so of snow on the ground – this can make roadways very dangerous. When there is only a dusting of snow, people tend to take to the roads as they normally do as businesses and schools often do not close. Regular traffic compounds the hazards inherent in snowy road conditions.
Be alert for black ice
Black ice is a very thin coating of ice that blends into the black roadways and parking lots. Because it cannot be seen due to its high transparency, drivers often mistakenly believe the road is safe to drive on. And that is a deadly mistake. Black ice is often the cause of road and pedestrian accidents, with vehicles losing traction as they hit the ice. Be alert for black ice whenever the outside temperatures drop near freezing, paying close attention to any puddles from snowmelt or rainfall, which may freeze.
Diminished visibility
Snow, particularly when it is blowing across the roadway, diminishes visibility. Turn your car lights on when it is snowing – even in daylight — so that you are visible to others on the road.
Drive slowly
Driving slowly is always advisable in inclement weather, particularly when driving in winter. Be cautious when accelerating. Driving at a slower speed in the snow gives you extra time to stop.
Don’t hit the brakes
Unless necessary, don’t hit the brakes – this may lead to sliding or fishtailing due to loss of traction. The American Automobile Association (AAA) also advises that, whenever possible, to avoid using the parking brake in cold, rainy, and snowy weather.
Keep your distance
Tailgating is never a good idea, but is particularly dangerous when driving in snowy conditions. Why? Stopping your car in snowy conditions takes four to 10 times longer than it does on dry pavement.
Contact leading New Jersey accident attorneys if you have been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence
The New Jersey accident attorneys at Lomurro Law are highly-skilled and dedicated to advocating on behalf of injured accident victims. Six of our personal injury attorneys are Certified Civil Trial Attorneys, a designation received from the Supreme Court of New Jersey. We offer experienced, compassionate counsel every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been injured, let us help. Contact a member of our team today at 732-482-9285 or online to schedule a confidential consultation. Lomurro Law has convenient office locations in Freehold and East Brunswick.