Auto accidents numbers increase significantly during the winter season throughout Connecticut and the northeast section of the nation. Driving in the summer and fall is typically much less challenging than during the winter. Snow and cold temperatures are the norms during the whole of the winter season, and it does not require major precipitation for conditions to get worse. Extremely cold weather is common as well, which can lead to black ice on the roads that is practically invisible to most drivers. Here are a few tips that every driver in Connecticut should remember when hitting the highways in the winter.
Do not over-steer
One problem many drivers face in winter is steering. It is easy to steer more than necessary, and especially when negotiating curves. This can easily lead to single-car motor vehicle accidents as well as collisions. Let the vehicle’s forward momentum be the primary force and only steer when absolutely needed. Too much steering can result in careening out of control and off of the roadway as easily as colliding with another vehicle.
Brake operations
Driving in snowy and icy conditions means that brakes will not respond as they do in good weather, and it is often best to pump the brakes slowly before attempting to come to a complete stop. Also remember that stopping distances are increased significantly in ice and snow, so maintaining at least a double or triple standard distance from the vehicle in front is advisable. Even fender-bender auto accidents can result in serious injuries.
Of course, the most important aspect of winter driving is reducing speeds in general whenever behind the wheel. Staying on the highway and stopping at a safe distance can be helped greatly by driving as slowly as possible while still maintaining forward motion. Additionally, it is important to avoid stopping, and especially on hills and in curves.
