As a Canadian, you know that autumn means that those cold temperatures are already frequent visitors. It’s never too early to get ready for winter. Being prepared for our winter weather and making sure that your vehicle is ready is just judicious to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads.
As Brampton personal injury lawyers, we know that the most careful of drivers may still be involved in a motor vehicle accident. There is no amount of preparation for that. But making sure that your vehicle is ready and that you are keeping an eye on your surroundings and driving as defensively as possible cuts down on the possibility that you may be victim to an automobile crash or can at least reduce its severity.
Rain, Sleet and Ice
Our autumns can be a mixture of precipitation that can create visibility issues and reduce your ability to react. Precipitation on the road can cause your car to lose traction, particularly if water or snow has accumulated. It can also cover road markings so you are unable to see lane and other markings. When you are faced with our autumn and winter precipitation, it’s best to take it slow and maintain control with gradual acceleration and deceleration.
Keep An Eye on Road Conditions as You Head Out
Our autumns are a hazardous combination of falling leaves, precipitation and cooler temperatures. This can create a slick surface as you head out on the roadways.
Wet autumn leaves can create slippery areas, often obscuring lane delineations and other markings. Leaves that have built up can cause a perilous situation while braking. It’s important to take particular care when entering intersections. Bridges will also create ice patches quicker than the other areas of the road. It’s always important to consider this while driving on a bridge and slow down accordingly.
If Your Vehicle Ready?
Our autumns can be notoriously wet and slippery. It’s important to make sure that your vehicle is ready for that weather and the winter weather to come.
Tires
You want to check your tires to ensure that they are getting enough traction with the pavement. Remember that the colder the weather, the less the pressure in your tires. This can result in steering issues and your ability to maintain control on the road. Check your tire pressure often as the temperature dips. Make sure you have seasonally appropriate tires and that you have enough tread to maintain traction. Rotate your tires and make sure they are in alignment.
Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers that are in good condition are extremely important at this time of the year. Make sure that your wipers are clean and maintained, replacing them the minute they show signs of wear.
Visibility is imperative to your safety while driving during our autumns. If you aren’t able to see, make sure to pull over until the weather passes. Even on a sunny day, a glare off your windshield can be dangerous to you, other drivers and pedestrians in your vicinity.
As Brampton injury lawyers, we take safe driving very seriously. We have seen the aftermath of too many accidents and have represented clients who have become unwitting victims of the unsafe driving of others. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call us for a no-obligation review of your case.
