As the weather gets colder and the nights get longer, the road becomes increasingly dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike. The winter has many hazards that can easily cause auto accidents, especially when people are not as careful as they should be. Watch for these five winter hazards, which can potentially result in an otherwise preventable accident:

  1. Snowy and icy roads
    • By far, the biggest cause of auto accidents during the winter is the result of snowy or icy roads. When the road is slippery from snow and ice, it can be difficult to get traction, and it is easy to skid out and lose control of your vehicle. If at all possible, do not drive when the roads are covered in snow or ice, but if you must, drive as carefully as possible.
  2. Poor visibility
    • Another type of winter hazard that commonly results in auto accidents is a lack of visibility. While this can be the result of bad weather, the much more common culprit is simply the fact that the sun sets earlier during the winter than it does during the summer. When people are forced to drive in the dark, they are much more likely to get into an accident, so take it slow when it is dark outside.
  3. Exhausted drivers
    • Another consequence of the winter, particularly in the week after the “fall back” after the end of Daylight Savings Time, is more exhausted drivers on the road. People who drive while physically and mentally fatigued are at a much higher risk of getting into auto accidents, compared to people who are well-rested. They are less attentive, more aggressive, and in the worst case scenario, can even fall asleep behind the wheel.
  4. Poorly maintained vehicles
    • An important part of staying safe during the winter is knowing your vehicle is up to the task by keeping it well-maintained. Unfortunately, many people put off regular maintenance on their vehicle, which can make it less reliable in the event of a crisis. In addition, poorly maintained vehicles are more likely to suffer issues like low batteries and low tire pressure during the winter, and are more prone to major mechanical failures that can cause auto accidents on their own.
  5. Drunk drivers
    • People love to celebrate the holidays every winter, but unfortunately, far too many people choose to celebrate by drinking and driving. Drunk drivers are always dangerous, but on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, they tend to come out in force, endangering everyone around them. If you suspect a driver is drunk, stay away and report them to the police, which is the best chance you have to avoid an auto accident.

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you should contact the Tennessee personal injury lawyers at the Keith Williams Law Group. With convenient offices located in Nashville and Lebanon, our lawyers will work with you to create a litigation strategy that protects your legal rights and serves your personal needs. For more information or a free consultation, please contact us at 615-444-2900 or visit our contact page.