If the forecasts are correct, a snowstorm is headed for Nashville and the rest of Middle Tennessee. While the kids will be ecstatic for a snow day, many of us are not that lucky and will have to venture out. Avoid accidents and stay safe by taking a few moments to remind yourself of winter weather driving tips and other safety considerations.
If time permits before the snow arrives (currently predicted for 9:00 pm. tonight), there are a few things you should do:
- Fill up on gas.
- Stock your car with necessities such as a blanket, a flashlight, an ice scraper, water, etc.
- Check your tire pressure.
- Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid.
- Put a pair of snow boots in your car in case you need to walk for help.
If you have to drive during the winter weather, remember these tips:
- Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and drive slowly.
- Remember that bridges and overpass will freeze first so exercise increased caution.
- Accelerate slowly and, we wish this did not have to be said, do not use cruise control.
- Brake slowly. If you do not have anti-lock brakes, pump your brakes gently and at a moderate pace if you start to skid.
- If you start to skid, turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid and slowly straighten your wheels.
- If you have an accident, check on other drivers if you are able to do so safely, then stay in your car, activate your emergency flashers and call for help.
- If your car is in the ditch or otherwise off the road, turn your car off until you can ensure that the exhaust pipe is free and clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Once you confirm the exhaust is clear, only run your car intermittently to conserve gas until help arrives.
- If you must transport a small child, remember that thick, bulky coats can impact the proper fit of a seatbelt harness in a car seat. Experts recommend wearing a thinner layer such as fleece and then using a blanket after buckling the seatbelt harness to keep the child warm.
- Proceed slowly and with increased caution at intersections. Drivers coming from other directions may slide into the intersection.
- Finally, three easy things that are completely within your control: wear your seatbelt, do not drive distracted and do not drive under the influence.
We hope you can stay home and watch movies or play in the snow with your kids but, if you have to get out in the snow, remember that winter weather driving requires patience and calm. As always, we are here if you need us. Our team is happy to answer your car accident questions in a free, no-obligation consultation and our award-winning lawyers handle all car accident cases on a contingency basis so we only get paid if we recover money for you.
Nashville: 615-669-3993
Murfreesboro: 615-867-9900
Brentwood: 615-742-4880
Toll-Free: 866-812-8787