Winter Driving Safety Stats and Tips
Despite popular belief, the summer months can be more dangerous for drivers than the winter. June, July, and August have 29% more fatal car accidents than December, January, and February.
However, winter driving stats show that inclement weather such as snow, ice, and rain are a major hazard for drivers that can cause accidents and even death.
Here Are a Few Winter Driving Stats you Should Know, Plus a Few Safety Tips for The Road This Winter.
Over 70% of US roads are in snowy regions.
70% of the US population lives in snowy regions that receive an average of 5 inches of snowfall annually.
17% of all vehicle crashes happen during winter conditions.
Traffic accidents on snowy, slushy, or icy roads account for 24% of weather-related traffic accidents.
1,836 people die annually due to snowy and icy pavement.
More than 1,300 people are killed in car crashes on snowy or icy roads every year.
About 76,000 people get injured are traffic accidents during snowfall each year.
About 70% of the accidental fatalities that occur during winter happen in cars.
December has the most traffic fatalities in winter.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
Winterize Your Car
Make sure your car has enough fluids, including oil and antifreeze. Keep your gas tank half full at all times during cold weather. This will prevent the tank from expanding due to cold temperatures and will ensure you will have enough fuel if you end up stranded due to poor road conditions.
Check Your Tire Pressure
Nothing can ruin a day like a flat tire, especially in the winter months. Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Cold weather deflates tires and causes the pressure to fluctuate.
Go Slow
Accelerate and decelerate at the same slow pace. Driving too fast in the winter can cause your car to lose traction and cause an accident.
6-8 Second Rule
The general driving rule of staying 3-4 seconds behind the person in front of you in the road should be increased to 6-8 when driving in winter weather. This extra time and space will allow some extra room and hopefully prevent an accident if you lose control of your vehicle.
Have an Emergency Plan/Kit
Make you are prepared. Have an emergency kit with blankets, water, flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. Keep this in your car at all times. These items will also come in handy year round. If you have to travel in the snow, make sure a friend, family member, or trusted colleague know where you are going and let them know your route.
Driving in winter weather is exponentially more dangerous than any other time of year. With the increase of car accidents this time of the year, it is important to stay vigilant and advocate for your safety. If you are hurt in an accident this winter due to the negligence of another driver, Spencer Law Group can help.