Winter is one of the most dangerous seasons for driving in Georgia. Winter weather combines rain, snow, sleet, and freezing rain to add a variety of hazards to most drivers’ commutes. These factors can sometimes only be avoided by staying at home. For those who still drive, using common sense and being careful can go a long way toward reducing the chances of serious injury from winter driving.
Winter and car accidents
Several factors connect winter weather and the winter months to more car accidents. One of these is the possibility of precipitation which makes driving hazardous. Just a few inches of snow can create dangerous conditions on nearly any roadway that increase the chances of car accidents. These conditions make it more likely for drivers to not be able to stop or navigate roadways properly. Freezing rain and sleet have similar effects. These forms of frozen precipitation also increase dangerous roadway obstructions such as fallen limbs or downed power lines. Winter weather also greatly increases the chances of potholes and other roadway damage that can make driving more dangerous.
What to do
Drivers should be careful and cautious when deciding whether or not to drive at in winter weather. Sometimes, they should walk or stay at home when there is snow or sleet outside. If they do have to travel, they need to keep speed and traction in mind. Drivers should always slow down and take curves and turns gently when driving in poor road conditions.
They should pull over if visibility is affected and they can no longer see the roadway. Drivers should also watch out for potholes, black ice, and other obstructions that winter weather can cause after a storm has passed. These simple steps can greatly reduce their chances of getting into an accident.