The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) warns that frigid temperatures have made the driving conditions treacherous. The weather has been so cold that droplets of fog are freezing as they make contact with the pavement. According to WJTV, icy roads have contributed to a rise in car accidents.
According to data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), ice is one of the deadliest driving hazards in the United States. More than 116,800 people are injured 1,300 die in motor-vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement each year.
Many of these tragedies could be avoided if drivers adjust their behavior to the conditions. Unfortunately, far too many motorists choose to speed and drive recklessly on slick roads.
If you were injured or lost a family member due to a negligent driver in Mississippi, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages.
Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation with an injury lawyer in Jackson. You can also learn more about car accident injury claims by visiting http://car-accident.usattorneys.com/.
7 Tips for Driving Safely on Icy Roads
Snow and ice reduce pavement friction, which makes it difficult for your tires to maintain traction. This not only leads to skidding, but it also impairs your vehicle’s ability to turn. Mississippi state police advise drivers to slow down, stay alert and wear their seatbelts when travelling on icy surfaces.
Here are seven tips to help you avoid accidents and injuries while driving in the winter:
- Make sure your vehicle is ready to handle icy roads. Ask a mechanic to inspect your lights, tires, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster and radiator.
- Make sure your windows are defrosted and clean. Snow and sleet can impair your visibility.
- Get a feel for the road before you accelerate to high speeds. Your vehicle may handle differently in wintery conditions. Make sure you can steer and brake safely.
- Reduce your speed. Ice can cause your tires to lose traction and skid or drift. This is less likely to happen when travelling at slower speeds.
- When coming to a stop, gently press on your brake. The harder you brake, the more likely you are to skid.
- Maintain a safe following distance. On icy roads, you should stay at least six seconds behind the leading vehicle when driving on the highway.
- Watch out for flat, reflective areas on the road surface that are indicative of ice patches – especially when driving over bridges.
If you were injured by a driver who was speeding, tailgating or behaving recklessly in icy conditions, contact Ballard Law, PLLC. As your car wreck attorney in Jackson, William E. Ballard will gather evidence, evaluate the police report and doctors’ records, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the highest possible compensation.
A small mistake during the claims process, such as making a recorded statement or overlooking certain damages, could significantly reduce the amount of compensation that you ultimately recover. Mr. Ballard will help you avoid these errors. Call 769-572-5111 today to schedule a free consultation.
