Winter in New Jersey is often enchanting. Snow-covered landscapes transform parts of the state into a winter wonderland. However, the beauty comes at the cost of treacherous road conditions. Navigating the hazards of winter driving is a fact of life for those navigating New Jersey roadways, and doing it safely requires caution and preparation.
Practicing safe driving techniques is crucial when facing hazardous winter conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a new resident of the state, it’s essential to be aware of the winter hazards that often result in car wrecks in NJ. Learn how to adapt your driving behavior to avoid car accidents in New Jersey.
Know the Road Conditions
Understanding the road conditions is the most important tool for safe driving during winter weather. In New Jersey, winter brings dangers such as those discussed below.
Black ice
Black ice is a transparent layer of ice that is impossible to spot on dark surfaces such as roadways, sidewalks, and driveways. Drivers may hit these patches without realizing they are driving onto the ice and can easily lose control of their vehicles. To stay safe:
- Reduce your speed when temperatures dip below freezing
- If you realize you’re on ice, avoid the temptation to hit your brakes. It’s instinctive, but braking can cause your vehicle to slide and result in a total loss of control.
- Instead, look for areas that may provide traction, such as sand, salt, or snow, and steer toward those.
- If you are sliding off the roadway, remain calm and attempt to steer toward an area that will cause as little damage as possible.
- Turn on your caution lights to alert other vehicles to the black ice.
Icy bridges
Because they’re elevated, bridges will start to collect ice and snow before other surfaces. Approach all bridges cautiously during the winter months and reduce your speed accordingly.
Heavy traffic
Larger metropolitan areas, like Newark, NJ, can be treacherous for winter driving. Even when you take care to drive safely, other drivers may not exercise the same caution. Leave as much distance as possible between your car and other vehicles. Try to stay off the roadways during the initial hours of a winter weather event. Give city crews time to treat the streets and elevated surfaces like bridges.
Prepare Your Vehicle
With fall in the air, now is the time to prepare your car for winter conditions. If possible, change to winter tires because they give you better traction on slick surfaces. This is also the best time to do basic maintenance, like checking your battery and changing the oil. Taking care of your vehicle will reduce your risk of being stranded in treacherous winter conditions.
Have an emergency kit in your car that contains enough supplies to keep you and your passengers safe until help arrives. A basic winter survival kit should include:
- Flashlight
- Food and water
- Blankets
- Hats and gloves
- A compact shovel and kitty litter can help you get unstuck from snow
If you’re injured in a New Jersey car accident, a skilled personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact The Law Office of Peter Brisken, P.C. for a free consultation.