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Winter Driving Safety

Posted by: at 3:10 PM on February 4th, 2019

We may have made it through the rough part of winter driving, but it's important to remain careful while the snow and ice melts (we hope). 

Take the time to maintain your vehicle properly in advance with an eye on safety.  Check and replace old tires, wiper blades and be sure to clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before heading out on the road.

Each year Wisconsin roads see thousands of accidents and over one quarter of them are weather related.  Take the necessary precautions to avoid becoming one of these statistics.  Decrease your speed in bad weather and allow yourself more room to apply the vehicles breaks when slowing or stopping. If you do get into an accident use these steps to guide you.

Stop your vehicle as soon and where it is safe to do so, never leave the scene of the accident.

If anyone is injured call 911 and try to assist the person injured until help arrives.  Never try to move an injured person as this could injure them further. 

Contact the police and assist them in filing a report detailing how the accident happened, if the police are not able to respond to the scene make sure to exchange information with the other driver, including name, date of birth, address, phone number, drivers license #, insurance company and policy # and names and contact info of any witnesses.

Take notes of any facts of the weather/road conditions, traffic flow and take pictures of all vehicles and the overall accident scene with your cell phone.

Do not make a statement to anyone other than the police, and never admit fault at the scene.

Seek medical attention immediately, utilize an ambulance to go to the Emergency Room directly from the accident scene if your injuries warrant it.  If your injuries are less severe you should still proceed to the ER on your own the same day to have a doctor check you out.  Make sure to follow up with your primary care doctor or any specialist the ER refers you to promptly and follow their instructions.

Contact a lawyer the same day as the accident if possible.  They will assist you in handling the insurance companies and addressing concerns regarding next steps.  Remember the insurance companies have a team of adjusters and lawyers on staff who are trained to deny or minimize your claim every chance they get.  You will need a trained injury lawyer to stand up to them and protect your rights. 

If you or a loved one is involved in a motor vehicle accident contact us at 414 276 1233