Perhaps you were disappointed at not getting a white Christmas this year, but in the days following, it seems we have been making up for it! January has been very harsh here, in Northeast Ohio, as we have had 3 major snow storms and very cold temperatures. I hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and warm and have not experienced any harm to person or home.
The colder months bring on a different set of challenges in regards to road hazards. Our local Akron, Ohio personal injury attorney sees cases every year of individuals who have been victims of automobile accidents due to winter storms. Winter storms present harsh driving conditions and drivers can find themselves navigating the roads in:
- Snow
- Freezing rain, sleet
- Ice
- Fog, white outs, poor visibility
- Extreme winds, drifting
Drivers involved in weather-related accidents often suffer serious injuries that require a personal injury attorney's knowledge and expertise.
If a bad winter storm is predicted for the area then it is always recommended to get somewhere safe and stay off the roads. However, this isn't always an option for everyone. If you find yourself having to travel during or immediately after a winter storm, then James J. Gutbrod, Attorney at Law has a few helpful tips for you. Our personal injury attorney recommends that you:
- Drive below the speed limit if roads are hazardous
- Exercise extreme caution and highly alert defensive driving
- Be extra cautious at intersections, realizing that some vehicles may not be able to stop for a red light.
- Ensure your car is winterized
- Keep your cell phone fully charged
- Store a blanket, snacks, and water in your car
- Fill up your gas tankIn the event that you find yourself in an accident due to someone else's negligence in a winter storm then call our Akron, Ohio office to speak with our experienced car accident attorney. For a refresher on prudent steps to take following a car accident, you can read more here.