Reacting to Car Crash Injuries During the Winter in Michigan
Based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding fatal collisions in winter weather conditions, Michigan was rated as the most dangerous state for winter driving in 2019. During the three-year time period of the data collection, there were 49 average annual fatalities in Michigan due to winter vehicle accidents, which is 19 more than the next highest state. With injury risks this high, it is crucial that you understand how to protect yourself from winter car crashes, as well as what to do if you or a loved one is injured.
Winter Driving Safety Tips in Michigan
With the proper safety precautions, you may be able to avoid winter car accidents entirely. The Michigan State Department offers several helpful suggestions for safe winter driving, including:
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Keeping your car well maintained. It is a good idea to have your car serviced as winter approaches to ensure you are prepared for cold and snowy conditions. You should be sure that you have functioning brakes and windshield wipers, tires with proper inflation and tread, an adequate supply of antifreeze, and a battery that holds a charge.
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Decreasing speed and allowing more distance between vehicles. Snow and ice affect both traction and visibility, and it is important to adjust your speed accordingly so that you can maintain control of your vehicle and react with plenty of time to avoid an accident. This also allows you to avoid slamming on the brakes, which can cause your car to skid.
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Checking the weather and road conditions before driving. Sometimes, the best way to stay safe is to avoid driving altogether if you can. Before making a trip, check online resources that provide information about weather forecasts and traffic conditions, and consider making alternative plans or taking a different route if conditions are especially dangerous.
Winter Car Wrecks and Personal Injury Claims
Winter weather makes driving more difficult for everyone on the road, and fortunately, your car insurance policy’s personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can often help if you are injured in an accident, especially if you are the only vehicle involved. However, the limits of your policy may be insufficient to cover the full extent of your damages if you are severely injured. In these types of situations, it is important to work with an attorney to identify other drivers who may be liable for the accident and gather evidence of their negligence, perhaps related to their failure to account for the dangerous driving conditions. We can use this evidence to make a case for compensation for your medical expenses and pain and suffering.
Contact a Grand Rapids Personal Injury Attorney
If you are injured in a car accident, you may be facing costly medical bills and other expenses. Attorney John D. Tallman can help you determine the best way to proceed in order to achieve full compensation for your damages. Call us today at 616-361-8850 to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Kent County, MI car accident injury lawyer.
Sources:
https://www.michigan.gov/sos/0,4670,7-127-96435_50413-203799--,00.html
https://www.wxyz.com/getting-around-metro-detroit/michigan-ranked-most-dangerous-state-for-winter-driving
https://www.michigan.gov/documents/autoinsurance/MI_New_Auto_Ins_Law_678454_7.pdf
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