Wisconsin car crash injury lawyersWhen winter settles in, and the roads become slick, even the best of drivers can find themselves in a dangerous situation. However, most circumstances are avoidable. Learn how you can best protect your family with some safe winter driving tips, and learn what rights you have if you or someone you love is killed or injured in an automobile crash this winter season.

Always Have a Plan for Unexpected Inclement Weather

It goes without saying that drivers should try to avoid going out if the roads are dangerous, but you cannot always prevent travel in inclement weather. For example, you might go to work in the morning, certain you can make it home before a winter storm hits, but then it hits earlier than expected and you are hit while trying to drive home. Knowing what to do in such a situation can be difficult, but effective preparation and planning can make the decision much easier.

First, you should always let others know when you are leaving, and when you can be expected at your destination. Second, ensure you keep a winter weather safety pack in your vehicle so that you can pull off the road and stop driving, should the roads become too dangerous. During such situations, stay in your vehicle, avoid running the car more than you need to, and keep your phone charged, just in case you need to call for assistance. Also, be sure to notify anyone who might be concerned that you are safe and simply waiting for the worst of the storm to pass before driving.

Increase Following Distance and Slow Down

If the roads are still safe to drive, but conditions are creating slick surfaces, it is important that you slow down and increase your following distance. This can help you reduce your risk of an accident death or injury in two ways. First, you are better able to stop, should you need to. Second, if a crash does occur, you are going at a much slower speed, which could very well save your life. Of course, even if you are doing everything correctly, there may be other drivers that do not. So, if someone is tailgating you, slow down more or pull off to the side so they can get by you. This can help reduce your risk of a rear-end accident. If one does occur, it is important that you understand your rights and know where to find help.

Understanding Your Rights as an Accident Victim

It can be frustrating to know that you have taken every possible precaution to keep yourself and your family safe, only to be hit by someone who was driving negligently or irresponsibly. You do have rights, however, including the right to pursue full and fair compensation for any losses, injuries, or wrongful deaths that may be experienced. Even more important to understand is that you do not have to face this difficult situation alone. An experienced personal injury lawyer can handle the legal details so that you and your family have the time and energy you need to heal or grieve.

Contact Our Wisconsin Auto Accident Lawyers

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an auto accident, contact Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. for assistance. We will protect your rights and your best interests, every step of the way. Compassionate advocates who will aggressively fight for you, our Appleton auto accident lawyers will pursue the most favorable outcome possible for your situation. Call 920-739-7366 and schedule your consultation with us today.

Sources:

http://journaltimes.com/news/local/update-city-worker-dies-from-injuries-suffered-in-morning-accident/article_3496d11f-a571-5030-8b73-2dfb9728f502.html

http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/pdf/Licenses/Driver%20Manual/Chapter_5.pdf