Driving in winter precipitation can be challenging. Residents of Connecticut must use extra care when traveling while snow blankets the ground. From January through March, this state sees snowfall averages of 9.3 inches to 12.3 inches per month with the highest totals normally falling in January.
Keeping safe while you are on the roads in these conditions means taking your time and thinking about what you are going to do. You can’t rush and get things done quickly when the roads are slick. Rushing can lead to your being involved in a crash. There are several other things that might help to increase your safety.
Try to avoid going out if the roads are bad
If possible, try not to drive when the roads are bad. If the snowfall occurred at night, it might take time for the plows to clear the streets so plan to stay home until this is done if you can. Most of the time, municipalities will plow main roads before side roads, so the ones in your neighborhood might be treacherous while the main thoroughfares are clear.
Plan carefully if you do have to leave
Make sure that you have at least half a tank of gas in the tank so that you can turn your vehicle on periodically if you are stranded. Remember to pack a shovel to clear snow from the tailpipe if you do have to start your vehicle while you are stranded. Having an emergency kit in your vehicle that has bottled water, nonperishable foods and blankets might be beneficial, especially if you have to travel long distances.
Drive safely
Remember that it takes longer to accelerate and brake on snowy roads. You have to be sure to give other drivers ample space and they need to do the same for you. Always control the acceleration and deceleration of your vehicle in these conditions, which means you shouldn’t use cruise control. If you do start to skid, steer into the skid so that you can try to regain control of your vehicle. If you see a car that seems to be sliding out of control, try to stay away from it if possible.
If you are involved in a crash in the snow, you need to report it just like you would any other time of year. Ask the dispatcher for paramedics if anyone was injured. You might choose to seek compensation for the crash if the other driver caused the incident.
