Winter Weather: Tips for Driving
Atlanta is a great place to live; however, we all know how bad traffic can be. Throw some rough winter weather into the mix and things can get even worse. Recent weather reports have indicated that there is a chance for some winter weather this upcoming weekend. Accordingly, we have prepared a list of things to keep in mind should we see some snow or ice on our roadways.
Be Prepared
Prior to leaving, it is important to make sure that your car is in tiptop shape. Check your tire pressure to make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Make sure that you have enough gas. A general rule of thumb is that you should have at least half a tank of gas. If you are going to be in an isolated area you should bring water, snacks, a blanket, a warm jacket, and good foot wear in case of a break down.
Be Alert
Driving takes a lot of mental effort. Driving when you have not had enough sleep seriously diminishes your ability to respond to potential hazards. With that in mind, getting enough sleep can be critical. If you are tired, take a quick nap before your departure. Of course, there are also many celebrations and parties this time of year. If you have had any alcohol at all, then it is worth taking an Uber, Lyft, or traditional taxi to reach your destination. Alcohol consumption prior to driving creates a serious hazard for you as well as others on the road. Not to mention, Georgia has a strict zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drinking and driving.
Avoid Hazards
The easiest thing to do in the event of snow or ice is to stay off of the road. If you absolutely must drive, drive slowly. Give yourself more time to reach your destination so you don’t feel the rush to be somewhere quickly. Adding speed to an already hazardous condition will only make things more dangerous. To this point, do not accelerate or decelerate rapidly. If you must speed up or slow down, do so gradually.
Be Mindful
Snow is a relatively uncommon occurrence here in Atlanta and many drivers have minimal experience with it. In addition to taking things slowly, provide the drivers around you with even more patience than normal. Tailgating closely and other forms of aggressive driving only make bad situations even more dangerous. Put simply, be considerate to those around you and you’ll decrease the odds of a winter weather mishap.
All told, there is no way to know for sure what is headed towards Atlanta this weekend. If winter weather does enter the mix, the best thing to do is stay off of the roads. If you must drive, please keep the above tips in mind. In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one is involved in a car accident due to the winter weather, don’t hesitate to give The Rhine Law Firm, LLC a call today.
Disclaimer:
The information contained on this website and blog is for general informational purposes only. This information is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Following the access and/or review of this website and blog, nothing contained within should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. Internet subscribers and online readers should not act upon information obtained from the website or blog without seeking professional legal counsel regarding their own situation.