Winter driving requires that motorists shift their approach. Drivers need to adjust their daily habits and become more proactive about monitoring road conditions before leaving home and while on the road.
Obviously, big drifts of snow are a safety concern, but there are numerous other hazards that can be harder to spot or remember. The five safety hazards outlined below all deserve consideration as people acclimate to winter driving in Pennsylvania.
1. Black ice
There doesn’t need to be active precipitation falling or mountains of snow for people to have issues with traction and vehicle control. Black ice can accumulate when snow melts during the day and then the water produced freezes overnight. Black ice can also be the result of mild precipitation or even fog accumulating overnight on the pavement and freezing. Drivers generally need to slow down and increase their stopping distance to offset the risk of encountering black ice.
2. Animal activity
Generally speaking, most animals are less active during the coldest part of the year. However, animals may still head out in search of food or shelter. Drivers need to be aware that thaws and other changes in weather conditions might prompt increased animal activity and adjust their monitoring practices accordingly.
3. Snow hypnosis
Many people are familiar with the idea of highway hypnosis. Driving in a monotonous environment can lead to drivers having difficulty paying attention as they should. Heavy snowfall can create a similar reaction that some people refer to as snow hypnosis. Drivers may have a hard time staying awake and alert when all they can see is snow falling around their vehicles, especially at night.
4. Vehicle performance issues
Several vehicle systems may not function as effectively during inclement winter weather. Tires may have lower pressure when road surfaces are cold, which can affect traction. Windshield wipers can have a hard time keeping up with heavy precipitation, especially if there is sleet or freezing rain. Batteries can also potentially fail, leaving people without transportation when they need it the most.
5. Delays in emergency services
Whether there is a crash or a driver goes off the road into a ditch, they may need help getting back on their way. It can take hours for emergency services and tow trucks to arrive during winter storm scenarios. Motorists need to have safety gear in their vehicles, including flares or LED lights to draw attention to their disabled vehicle, spare clothing and warm blankets.
Being aware of the unique and often easy-to-ignore hazards of winter driving can help people stay safer as temperatures drop. Drivers also need to have a plan in case they get into a crash caused by another driver during inclement winter weather.
Injured in an accident? We can help. Reach out to the team at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP by clicking here or calling 717-789-7887 to discuss the wreck and options for compensation.