Indianapolis Auto Accident Attorney Offers Advise for Winter Driving

The Indiana State Police warn that snow and ice don’t cause crashes… but rather driving behavior causes crashes.  Old man winter is dishing out more than a fair share of snow , ice and cold for us this winter and there are a few things the state police recommend to help safely travel in these conditions.

You should be prepared. First,  you should check the forecast and let someone know your route before traveling. Next, you should keep your gas tank full.  You should also carry a winter driving kit.  This should include blankets,flashlight and extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand or cat litter, a shovel, candle, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, a first aid kit, jumper cables and a cell phone(preferably with a car charger).

You should also drive according to the road conditions. You should allow extra time to get to your destination.You should clear all windows of ice and snow, including removing snow from the hood, roof and all lights, including both headlights and taillights. Take added care at bridges,underpasses,shadowy areas and intersections ,where ice is slow to melt. It is wise to slow down to increase traction and don’t use your cruise control on slick roads. The use of low beam headlights decreases the glare from ice. You should avoid abrupt stops and starts. It is better to slow down gradually and keep your wheels turning to avoid losing traction.

If you become stranded don’t leave your car as it is the best protection you have. You should tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna to alert your need for help. Rolling down a window a little amount lets in some fresh air. You should keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning .  It is important to not panic.  A car idling only uses a gallon of gas per hour.

Statewide road and weather information can be gained by calling 1-800-261-7623 or visiting INDOT’s website at TrafficWise.IN.gov.