Preparation for Safe Winter Driving in New Jersey
Training and experience with driving in slippery, treacherous winter conditions is one critical aspect of staying safe on the road in sleet, snow, and ice. However, it isn’t just one’s driving skills that matter; preparation is equally important.
There are five climate zones in New Jersey, per the Office of the New Jersey State Climatologist at Rutgers University. Regions in the northern portion of the state tend to see winter conditions earlier than those in the southern portion. Still, no matter where you are located in New Jersey, you will experience some snow and ice because the entire state gets these winter weather conditions each year. Driving on slick streets when winter weather is inclement can be extremely difficult and even scary. The good news is that there are certain preparatory steps you can take to improve your safety.
If you were injured in a car accident in New Jersey, you may benefit from having experienced and skilled legal representation. The South Jersey car accident attorney at Monaco Law PC offers free initial consultations to injured parties. During a consultation, you can have your case reviewed, your questions answered, and you can learn about what legal options may be available to you to obtain financial compensation.
Top Steps to Take to Prepare for Winter Driving
Preparation can not only reduce the chances of an accident when driving in winter weather but can also be a safeguard should an emergency happen. As a result, the following steps are critical when traveling in winter weather conditions.
- Clear your car of snow and ice. When your car is covered in snow and ice, it is harder to see out of your windows or use your mirrors. So, clearing all snow and ice from windows and mirrors off of the top of your car as much as you can allows you greater visibility on the roads. Additionally, ice and snow blowing off a car while driving can be hazardous for other drivers, so clearing your car helps everyone stay safer.
- Check your tires to make sure they are properly inflated. Your tire pressure can change with the weather. When a cold front comes through and drops the temperature considerably, you should always check your tire’s air pressure. It may be necessary to add air to get them back to where they are supposed to be.
- Check your tire’s tread. Also important is the tread of the tires. When a tire does not have deep enough treads, it is more likely to slide in wintery conditions, making it extremely unsafe to drive. So give your tires a once over before driving in snow and ice. Or, what is even better is if there is news of a winter mix coming, check your tires before the cold touches down to replace any with worn-out treads.
- Make sure you have at least a half tank of gas or more to get where you need to go.
- Always have an emergency kit packed in your car. Should an emergency arise, having essentials on hand to signal for help and keep you warm and safe is critical.
- Don’t Drive. In the most extreme and hazardous conditions, it is best to stay off the roads if you can.
Speak to a New Jersey and Pennsylvania Personal Injury Attorney Today
Our South Jersey personal injury lawyer at Monaco Law PC can help you after an injury accident. To speak with an attorney, you are welcome to call (609) 277-3166 for our New Jersey office and (215) 546-3166 for our Pennsylvania office to discuss your case today.
We are a New Jersey and Pennsylvania personal injury law firm serving Atlantic County, Burlington County, Cape May County, Camden County, Cumberland County, Gloucester County, Mercer County, Middlesex County, Ocean County, Salem County, and all of South Jersey.
Source:
climate.rutgers.edu/stateclim_v1/njclimoverview.html
