Winter Car Accidents
Ohio is known for having some of the worst winter storm seasons in the country. Especially harsh are cities along the lake, as low-pressure centers pass near the Great Lakes regions, opening the way for lake effect snow to occur. With an average of 54 inches of snow per year, Cleveland is far above the average amount of 28 inches per year. All the snow, sleet, and ice can cause dangerous road conditions throughout the winter season and lead to an increase in serious car crashes in Cleveland and surrounding areas.
Increased Car Accident Risk
Snow and ice are one of the largest causes of car crashes in the midwest. Based on statistics published by The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), over 70 percent of the nation’s roads are located in snowy regions of the country and nearly 70% of the population lives in these regions. Ohio is particularly bad, ranking at number one for the most incidences of deadly winter car crashes, according to USA Today.
“Snow and ice reduce pavement friction and vehicle maneuverability, causing slower speeds, reduced roadway capacity, and increased crash risk.” – Federal Highway Administration
Not only can winter weather cause a decrease in visibility and vehicle control, but it can also negatively impact the infrastructure of large roadways and highways. Winter road maintenance accounts for around 20% of the Department of Transportation budgets each year, but often that’s not enough to keep the roads fully intact, increasing the likelihood of a snow car accident.
Winter Driving Tips
Although we can’t control the weather, we are able to do some things to decrease the risk of getting into a weather-related or snow car accident.
Five of the most important winter driving tips include:
- Ensure your windshield wipers and defrosters are working properly before the first big snowstorm.
- Avoid using cruise control on slippery highways and roadways.
- Maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead of you- be sure you have ample space to brake if needed.
- Avoid slamming on the brakes at all times, especially when it feels like the tires are beginning to lose traction. Forceful braking can cause the vehicle to spin out of control.
- Remove all snow and ice from both the front and back windshield to ensure full visibility.
Winter Car Crash Lawyers in Ohio
If you live in Cleveland or a surrounding area in Northeast Ohio, you’re all too familiar with the dangers of driving during the snowy and icy winter months. Although it’s essential that drivers use increased caution when driving in snowy conditions, reckless and negligent driving still occurs.
If you or someone you know has recently been in a car crash caused by another driver’s negligence, it’s important to hire an experienced car accident lawyer to help. You may be able to receive compensation for any physical and psychological damages you incurred due to the accident.
The legal team at Tittle & Perlmuter will be happy to evaluate your case free of charge. Feel free to fill out a contact form online or call our office to talk further about your car accident and find out what we can do to help.
