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What is the best way to avoid being in a collision on icy roads? Drive carefully, and make sure to winterize your car. At TK Injury Lawyers, we have seen how catastrophic ice road crashes in Austin, Texas, can be and would like to share some helpful tips from professionals who could protect you.
Ice and snow reduce traction, making it more difficult to steer, accelerate, or stop your vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that approximately 153,620 traffic accidents occur every year due to winter driving conditions. Of particular danger is black ice, a thin layer of transparent ice usually invisible to drivers. All these risks must be understood in order to avoid road accidents.
Always drive slower than the posted speed limit on icy roads. Slower speeds give you time to react and reduce losing control. Avoid sudden changes in speed to minimize skidding.
Keep at least six seconds of distance. Icy roads increase stopping distances, and extra space reduces rear-end collision risks.
Sudden movements result in loss of control. Gradual inputs to brake, accelerate, and steer are safer in icy conditions. Avoid slamming on the brakes; instead, use steady pressure to maintain control.
Driving in lower gear helps increase traction on slippery roads, which is very helpful when driving up or down hills in icy conditions.
Do not use cruise control on icy roads. It’s important to have full control over your vehicle’s speed to react quickly to changing conditions.
While Austin, TX, may not experience frequent snowstorms, icy roads can still occur during winter cold snaps. Ensure your vehicle is ready by:
Do not panic; stay cool. Take your foot off the accelerator. Steer where you want to go lightly. Overcorrection increases the likelihood of skids. According to the CDC guidelines, smooth motions are essential.
If you’re in a collision due to icy roads, understand your legal rights. Liability often involves negligence, road conditions, and insurance—key factors in winter accident claims.
At TK Injury Lawyers, we help Austin residents navigate car accident aftermaths. Wondering what is the best way to avoid being in a collision on icy roads? Contact us at 1002 Rio Grande St., Austin, TX 78701, or call (512) 910-2000 for a free consultation with an experienced Austin car accident lawyer.
Trent Kelly obtained his law degree from the University of Arkansas in 2007. He is licensed to practice law in Texas and regularly assists clients with their legal matters. Trent’s practice is primarily focused on personal injury matters – particularly those involving motor vehicles (such as cars, commercial trucks, 18-wheelers, and motorcycles) and wrongful death – but he also handles various business litigation matters as well. Click here to take a look at some complex cases Trent has resolved.
Years of experience: +15 years
Location: Austin, TX
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Trent Kelly, who has more than 15 years of legal experience as a practicing personal injury trial attorney.
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