By Pendergast Law on February 19, 2014
The night of February 8 was particularly treacherous for Seattle drivers because of icy conditions on the roadways. According to a KIRO TV news report, several cars spun out of control on Madison Street west of 6th Avenue in Seattle. Officials saw that many of the drivers were unable to maintain control of their vehicles on the icy and snowy roadways. A number of nearby pedestrians and police officers were needed to help push the cars that were stuck in the snow. It is not clear if anyone was hurt in the icy conditions, but a number of the vehicles struck each other and crashed into the curb.
Officials are attempting to respond to the snowfall by mobilizing snowplows to dangerous areas where they are needed most. In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to avoid driving unless they absolutely must venture out in these conditions. If you have to drive in icy and snowy conditions, here are a few tips to help you stay safe:
- Make sure your vehicle can handle the conditions. Worn tires cannot properly grip the road. After checking your tires, make sure your vehicle has plenty of antifreeze.
- Clear off the snow. You cannot avoid obstacles you cannot see. Clear away snow and ice from all of your windows before starting to drive.
- Avoid all distractions. Your eyes and your mind should be on the roadway at all times. Put away your phone and remain focused.
- Slow down. Coming to a complete stop can take longer on icy roads than it can on dry roads. If you are traveling at a high rate of speed, you will have a more difficult time avoiding a crash.
- Maintain control of your vehicle. If you begin to slide, try not to overcompensate by jerking your wheel to one side. Instead, carefully turn in the direction in which you want to go and hold your wheel there until you regain control.
- Understand your braking system. If you have an older vehicle that does not have anti-lock brakes, you should pump them to avoid skidding while stopping. If, however, you do have anti-lock brakes, press firmly and hold your foot down.
If you are injured in a Seattle car accident this winter, make sure you research all of your legal options. Please contact the experienced Seattle personal injury lawyers at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. to schedule your free and comprehensive consultation.