Winter in Maryland brings unique driving challenges, turning familiar roads into unpredictable hazards. Safety is paramount, and preparing for accidents and the worst-case scenario is the best way to protect yourself and your family. We're here to help you navigate the season with confidence, offering essential advice to help keep you safe on the road.
Low Visibility and Snow Build-up
Snow and freezing rain can rapidly obscure your view, but reduced visibility often starts before you even get on the road.
Uncleared vehicles pose a double threat:
Impaired Vision: Snow and ice on your windows, mirrors, and lights obstruct your view. Maryland law requires that you not drive with snow or ice obstructing your view.
"Flying Snow/Ice" Hazard: Large sheets of ice or piles of snow can detach from your roof or hood at highway speeds, creating a dangerous projectile for drivers behind you.
Visibility Safety Tips:
Clear Everything: Before driving, completely clear all snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof of your vehicle.
Use Low Beams: Use your low-beam headlights in snow or fog. High beams will reflect off the precipitation and reduce your visibility even further.
Heavy-Duty Wipers: Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and your fluid reservoir is full of winter-grade washer fluid.
The Threat of Ice and Black Ice
Ice is arguably the biggest threat to Maryland drivers. It drastically reduces traction, increasing the distance needed to stop and making steering difficult.
Black ice is particularly dangerous because it's nearly invisible. This thin, clear glaze of ice often forms on seemingly wet roads, especially at night or in the early morning. It is most common on bridges, ramps, and overpasses because they are exposed to cold air on all sides and freeze faster than regular roadways. Shaded areas of the road are also hot spots for black ice.
How to Avoid Skidding on Ice:
Slow Down and Increase Distance: Reduce your speed significantly and increase your following distance to at least 8 to 10 seconds.
Brake Gently: Avoid sudden, hard braking. Brake slowly and gently to prevent your wheels from locking up or losing traction.
No Sudden Moves: Avoid sudden acceleration or sharp turns. All movements should be slow and controlled.
Steer into a Skid: If you do skid, remain calm. Gently steer the car in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Don't slam the brakes.
Know the Rules of the Road in a Storm
Even the most cautious drivers can be caught off guard by others or by state-mandated safety procedures.
Respect the Plows: Never pass a snow plow or a series of plows working in tandem (a "plow train"). They travel slowly for a reason, and the roads they have just cleared are the safest place to be. Give them at least seven to eight car lengths of space.
Snow Emergency Routes: Be aware that the Maryland Secretary of State Police may declare a "Snow Emergency," which activates special rules on designated routes. When an emergency is in effect, you cannot drive on those routes unless your vehicle has snow tires or tire chains. Furthermore, parking is prohibited on snow emergency routes.
Don't Use Cruise Control: Never use cruise control on snowy, icy, or wet roads. If your car hits a patch of ice, the system might accelerate, causing you to lose control.
Car Accident Lawyer in Washington, DC
Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen, especially when other drivers fail to adjust to the hazardous conditions. If you or a loved one is involved in a motor vehicle accident this winter due to another driver's negligence, you deserve professional and supportive legal guidance.
The attorneys at Fay Law Group, P.A. are here to help you understand your rights and navigate the complexities of a winter weather-related claim. Don't face the aftermath of an accident alone.
Contact us today at (202) 589-1300 for a consultation.