Staying Safe in Massachusetts When Road Conditions Are Compromised
Anyone who has spent time in Massachusetts knows that the winters can be particularly unforgiving. When it comes to rain, snow, or sleet, the winters mean that most residents and locals are familiar with slick conditions during the cooler months. Knowing about the potential of slick conditions, however, is not enough to prevent accidents from taking place. When the weather is wet and icy and road conditions are poor, it often makes for a recipe for disaster for drivers. Understanding what steps to take to keep yourself and your passengers as safe as possible could make a big difference.
According to a recent local news report, winter weather swept through the Boston area, which caused major traffic crashes for many proceeding through their morning commute. Massachusetts State Police responded to multiple reports of accidents, including a tractor-trailer crash involving several vehicles in Andover, a spin-out accident nearby, and several other accidents throughout the Boston metropolitan area. Accidents were also reported across the state involving upwards of six to seven vehicles, a disabled bus, and crashes reaching as far as the New Hampshire state line.
In 2019, there were an estimated 182,000 accidents related to icy conditions across the country. Unfortunately, Massachusetts is no stranger to similar winter weather oriented accidents and conditions.
Although the best way to stay safe from accidents stemming from slippery or icy conditions is to stay home, travel is frequently unavoidable. Even the best of drivers sometimes struggle to manage their vehicles with severe winter weather, but some easy to adopt tips could help you and your loved ones stay safe as the cooler weather makes its last round through the New England area.
First, and most importantly, operating your vehicle slowly is crucial. This means driving slowly, accelerating slowly, and decelerating slowly. Operating your vehicle at lower speeds also means creating additional space between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you to proactively account for any slipping and sliding that could take place should you brake too late or should your brakes fail because of icy conditions.
Second, living in an area like Massachusetts means that icy conditions are a regular occurrence. It also means that there is quite a bit that you can do to proactively prepare in case of an emergency. Ensuring that your tires are filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, inspecting your tires regularly, and getting regular replacements could decrease the chances of an accident taking place.
Finally, stocking your vehicle up with some basic supplies during the winter months can always be helpful, but could save your life in the event of an emergency. Throwing a bag in the trunk with flares or emergency markers, a snow shovel or ice scraper, extra blankets, cell phone chargers, and basic food and water necessities could save your life.
Do You Need a Massachusetts Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you or someone you know was recently injured or killed in a Massachusetts car accident, contact the attorneys at the Neumann Law Group today. Our lawyers have years of experience representing clients in all kinds of personal injury accidents and will work to get you the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation today, contact us at 800-525-NEUMANN.
