Winter can be a difficult time of the year for many drivers in the state of Maryland. While it may not get the same kind of snowfall as an area like Buffalo, motorists could still be susceptible to hazardous driving conditions. Cold temperatures, icy roads, and poor visibility can lead to all sorts of dangerous situations for drivers during the winter.
However, it is important to keep in mind that while winter driving hazards can put you in danger, it also means you could put other drivers in danger as well. If an accident was caused by snow or ice flying off someone’s vehicle, a personal injury claim could be filed against the liable party. In that scenario, regardless if it was your or another person’s fault, strong legal representation will be required. Do not hesitate to contact the personal injury attorneys in Baltimore County at The Law Offices of Markey & Orsi to learn more about your next steps.
What are some winter driving hazards I should be prepared for?
The most obvious winter driving hazard all drivers should be ready for is cold temperatures. Not only is it dangerous for you, but it is also not ideal for your vehicle. If your car is not properly prepared for winter conditions, it can result in malfunctions which can leave you vulnerable to more perilous conditions. To avoid this disaster, you may need to switch to oil made for colder weather during your next oil change. Although, the biggest issue that comes with cold weather is icy roads, black ice in particular. Because it is notoriously difficult to identify on the road, drivers will often not adjust their driving habits which can lead to an accident. Even if the road just seems wet, it is always best to assume it may be black ice and proceed cautiously.
Bad visibility is also a major concern during the winter. Flurries and blizzards can result in a poor line of vision on the road which will severely affect any driver’s ability to drive safely. However, poor visibility can also be a result of other drivers not properly cleaning any snow or ice off their vehicles. Not only could it adversely affect other drivers’ ability to see on the road, but it can also cause serious damage and injuries. While it may not be illegal to drive with snow and ice on your vehicle in Maryland, not taking the time to wipe off all the snow and ice from your car could result in a personal injury claim. Depending on who is at fault, the liable party may have to pay for any damages or medical expenses that were caused by their negligence.
