Winter weather can make roads dangerous, and accidents are more likely to happen, even if drivers are careful. Since the weather isn’t ideal, it can take more time for a tow truck, or help, to get to you following an accident in the winter. If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident, you want to ensure you stay safe until help arrives. Here’s what you need to know.
Try to stay calm
After being in an accident, it’s natural to be upset about it and maybe panic. But, it’s essential to remain as calm as possible. Now you need to focus on your safety and the safety of your passengers.
After the accident, make sure you turn on your hazard lights. Driving in the winter can mean little to no visibility since it gets dark early, and snow can make it tough to see other vehicles. Once your hazard lights are on, check to see if you or the others in your car are injured.
It may not be safe to get out of your vehicle, even though it’s most people’s first instinct. If you need to get out of your vehicle, check around the vehicle and ensure there isn’t any danger from other vehicles, etc.
Call emergency services
If anyone is injured, it is important that they receive medical attention as soon as possible. However, even if no one is seriously injured, there can be low visibility in winter weather, creating extremely dangerous conditions for those stuck in the snow. Emergency vehicles will ensure that other drivers know to stay clear and that those injured get the care they need.
Keep off the road (as much as possible)
If it is safe to get out of your vehicle, it’s crucial to stay off the road outside your vehicle. You may want to take photos of the accident, but make sure you stay off the road so you are out of the way of other traffic. If your car can be driven, try to move it off the side of the road to get it out of the way of other drivers until emergency services arrive.
Be visible
Do whatever you can to stay visible to other drivers and cars on the road. Keep reflective clothing and flares in your vehicle, so that if you need to, you can make yourself visible to oncoming traffic.
Stay warm
When the temperatures drop, being outside for extended periods isn’t recommended. Keep some blankets or extra clothing in your vehicle so that if you are in an accident or slide off the side of the road, you have what you need to stay warm until help arrives.
If your vehicle still runs, make sure your car’s tailpipe is clear and isn’t clogged; then, you can run your car’s engine to stay warm if needed.
Depending on the severity of the accident, your vehicle may still be able to be driven. If that’s the case, you may want to go home after exchanging information with the other driver involved (if there was one).
Contact Hoffman Law today
After a motor vehicle accident in the winter, safety is of the utmost importance. Ensure that you have the proper equipment with you, such as flares, blankets, and extra food and water, in case you are stuck for an extended period. Following a car accident (especially if you or a loved one has been hurt), it is always a good idea to speak to a personal injury lawyer. You may be eligible for compensation. To talk to a personal injury lawyer, schedule a free consultation with Hoffman Law today.