How to survive bad weather driving
We rarely have cold weather that could be dangerous in Texas. But who can forget what happened in our state in February of 2020 when a week-long ice storm devastated our state? And the resulting tragic multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 in Fort Worth that took the lives of six people and injured many more? Let’s hope that never happens again.
Since many people will be driving to visit relatives for Christmas and Texas is expecting an arctic front tomorrow, here are some tips to help people who may encounter bad weather and danger on the roads.
- Make sure your vehicle is cold-weather-ready by checking the battery, engine, wipers, lights, and tires.
- Research the weather and road conditions before you leave — and on long trips during the drive.
- Bring a first aid and safety kit with a backup cell phone charger, jumper cables, snacks, and extra clothes.
- Slow down.
- Should you be in an area with snow and ice, try not to drive. At the very least, stay three times your normal stopping distance behind other vehicles.
- Avoid bridges and overpasses if you can since they freeze first and thaw last.
- If you skid, steer in the direction you are going and release the brake or gas pedal.
- Expect the unexpected.
More info from a previous post: Bad weather causes numerous North Texas traffic accidents
Crashes happen all the time. We in Texas have one every minute 57 seconds. But bad weather obviously increases the chances of being in one.
Who is at fault in a bad weather crash?
You might wonder how Texas law works if there is a bad weather car or truck collision. How do you get paid for your damages, including your vehicle damage, medical bills, and lost wages?
This is a difficult subject that needs professional legal assistance, but in a nutshell, here is how it works.
Drivers or parties who may be liable:
Negligent driver(s) who are violating traffic laws or driving with an improperly maintained or equipped vehicle
In extreme cases: The state, county, city, or company in charge of a tollway (as in the Fort Worth crash mentioned above)
Good advice any time of year
In any type of weather, here are more pointers that can prevent you from being in a car or truck crash:
- Drive defensively.
- Buckle up.
- Don’t drive distracted. Put that cell phone down.
- Don’t drive if you are tired.
- And of course, don’t drink and drive.
Have you been hurt in a Texas car or truck accident?
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car crash, contact Berenson Injury Law for help. We have successfully represented injured victims in Texas for the past 42 years. Please call us at 817-885-8000 or 800-885-8585 or click here for more information.
We hope that your driving this week — and all year — is safe and uneventful.
Happy holidays.