The winter months in Massachusetts consist of long nights, and they are often accompanied by cold temperatures and roads covered with ice and snow. Although winter weather can make driving hazardous, there are steps that you can take to maximize your chances of getting to your destination safely.
Take your time
You will need to slow down and increase your following distance when traveling on slippery roads or during periods of inclement weather. This is because your tires won’t have as much traction on slick roads, which means that your car will be harder to control. During periods of ice or snow fall, your visibility will be significantly reduced, which means that you won’t have as much time to react to changing conditions. Therefore, attempting to drive at typical highway speeds might increase your risk of a motor vehicle accident.
Don’t hesitate to stay home
If the weather is expected to be really bad, you may want to wait until conditions change. Staying home gives road crews time to treat slick roads, which can reduce your risk of an accident. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about high winds or other hazards that can make it dangerous to venture out whether you’re outdoors or in a car. It may also be best to stay where you are if you are uncomfortable driving during periods of inclement weather.
If you are involved in an accident, you may be entitled to a financial award for damages such as medical bills or the cost of replacing your car. However, this assumes that you are not at fault for the crash. You can use video footage, witness statements or a police report to show that another party should be liable for any financial losses you incurred in a wreck.