Winter driving presents unique challenges. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can all affect vehicle performance and safety. In 2023, there were an estimated 101,390 police reported traffic crashes that occurred when there was snow/sleet conditions at the time of the crash.
As winter driving brings added dangers, and accidents are more likely to occur as temperatures drop and road conditions worsen, it’s crucial to prepare yourself and your vehicle, and to know the proper steps to take after a winter car accident. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make a significant difference in securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter
In the winter, your vehicle faces added stress from cold air, ice, and road salt. Preparing your car for these harsh conditions is essential to ensure safety, reliability, and performance throughout the season.
Lights
- Check that all exterior and interior lights are working: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and trailer lights (if applicable).
- Replace any burned-out bulbs, and clean lenses to improve visibility.
Windshield Wipers & Defrosters
- Make sure defrosters and all wipers are working properly.
- Refill the windshield washer reservoir with a winter-grade fluid containing de-icer.
- Replace worn wiper blades; consider heavy-duty winter blades for snowy climates.
Cooling System
- Verify that your coolant level meets the manufacturer’s specifications and your coolant is rated for cold weather.
- Inspect for leaks, cracks, or worn hoses.
- Have your mechanic test and replace the coolant if needed.
- A winter tune-up can ensure your vehicle’s engine and heating systems are ready for cold temperatures.
Battery
- Cold weather reduces battery performance. Have your battery, charging system, and belts inspected.
- Replace weak batteries before winter starts.
- For electric or hybrid vehicles, remember that cold weather reduces range. Keep the battery charged and plug in overnight to maintain optimal temperature.
Tires
- Check tire pressure monthly; it drops as temperatures fall. Use the manufacturer’s recommended pressure found on the driver-side door frame (not the tire’s sidewall).
- Inspect tires for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear.
- Ensure tread depth is at least 2/32 inch or greater.
- Check the spare tire as well.
- Consider installing snow tires for better traction.
Floor Mats
- Use winter-appropriate mats made of rubber or heavy material to trap slush.
- Ensure mats are properly installed and secured to prevent interference with the brake or accelerator pedals.
Prepare For Your Trip
Preparation for emergencies is key when it comes to winter safety on the road. Taking the time to get ready before harsh weather hits can make all the difference when road conditions turn dangerous. A little preparation now can save time, stress, and even lives when the unexpected happens.
Stock Your Vehicle for Emergencies
Keep an emergency kit in your car throughout the winter. Some recommended items to include are:
- Snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper
- Abrasive material (sand or kitty litter) for traction
- Jumper cables and a flashlight
- Road flares or reflective warning triangles
- First aid kit (including a tourniquet)
- Warm blankets or extra clothing
- Water, nonperishable snacks, and essential medications
- Cell phone charger and backup power bank
Fuel and Power
- Keep your gas tank close to full to prevent condensation in the fuel lines, and to ensure you have fuel to run the engine in an emergency.
- For electric or hybrid vehicles, minimize battery drain by keeping the car plugged in overnight and reducing use of cabin heating when possible.
Plan Your Route
- Check local weather and road conditions before you travel.
- Postpone non-essential trips if roads are hazardous.
- If you are traveling long distances, share your route and estimated arrival time with someone.
- Bring a paper map as backup to GPS navigation.
Safe Winter Driving Practices
Icy and snowy roads pose significant risks during the winter months. Whether you are navigating through snowstorms or driving on slick, frozen pavement, it's crucial to take extra precautions. Following the proper winter driving guidelines can help you avoid accidents and stay safe on the road.
- Slow Down
- Avoid Cruise Control
- Maintain Distance from Snowplows
- Know Your Vehicle’s Safety Features
- Watch for Risk Zones
- Drive Carefully, Even with All Wheel Drive
- Be Alert at Chain-Up Areas
What To Do After a Car Accident
If you have been in a car accident, taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights:
- Put your emergency flashers on.
- Check for injuries and that you and your passengers are okay.
- Pull over to the side of the road if possible, being sure to stay clear of the likely path of any other vehicles.
- Set up flares and/or reflective markers to warn other drivers and identify your location to first responders.
- Call 911, requesting fire, paramedics, and police as needed.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Take pictures of the accident scene.
- See if there were witnesses on the scene.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
If you become stranded or stuck after an accident:
- Stay with your vehicle. It provides shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you. This is especially important in winter, when hypothermia and frostbite are bigger risks.
- Mark your car with bright fabric on the antenna or window.
- Turn on the interior dome light at night to increase visibility.
- Be sure not to drain your battery by leaving the light(s) on, running the engine intermittently for warmth and to maintain the battery.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.
- Run the engine only intermittently for warmth.
- Crack a window slightly for ventilation.
- Stay warm but conserve energy, move around periodically, but don’t overexert yourself.
Personal injury cases from an automobile accident injury can be complex, and it is important that you understand the variety of different liability and insurance coverage issues that may apply to your case. If you think that someone was at fault in causing a collision that you, a family member or friend were involved in, you should have the facts of your claim reviewed by a lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today
GLP Attorneys has helped thousands of clients with their personal injury accidents for nearly four decades. From highway design and unsafe roadways to car accidents to motorcycle accidents and even wrongful death cases, our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to help you seek justice every step of the way.
If you have been injured, call 800-273-5005 or email our attorneys at to schedule a free lawyer consultation.
