While it’s still sunny and warm in most places, winter will arrive faster than we can imagine. Snow season means an increase in ice-and-storm-related car accidents and painful injuries. We’ve put together some tips to help you remain safe on the roadways and to be better prepared if you do get involved in a winter wreck.
Suggestions for Safer Winter Driving
- Take it slower on the road. Icy patches pop up unexpectedly, and blizzard conditions make driving more challenging, so drive safer than usual and take more time to get to your destination.
- Make your vehicle “storm-ready.” Use snow tires, clear that windshield, warm the car up before you head out, and consider having coolant, jumper cables, or a spare battery in your trunk.
- Be prepared if an accident does happen. Even the best driver can find themselves in an auto accident, and doing so in the heart of winter weather presents its own issues.
- Have blankets, heavy clothing, and coats in your vehicle if you need to wait outside after a wreck. Stop by the auto store for some flares, pack a flashlight, some extra water, and maybe some non-perishable food.
- And just like Mom said, have a good winter hat to keep warm if you’re forced to wait outside your car unexpectedly.
- Give yourself lots of extra room between your vehicle and the car ahead of you. Stopping on the icy, snowy roads takes a lot more space.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Wintertime Auto Accident
Auto accidents do happen, even to the best drivers. There are several steps to follow after an accident occurs.
Call 911 or Report Your Accident to the Police
If you are involved in an accident, check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 if necessary. Move the cars to the side of the road to avoid a second accident. You will also need to exchange information with others involved.
Take Notes on How the Accident Occurred
When first responders arrive, recount all the details of the accident for them. Start a note on your phone, recording the time that the accident happened, the conditions of others, and damage to any vehicles. It is also important to take photos of the roadway and cars and note the road and weather conditions while the information is fresh in your mind. Write down any details about what was happening before and during the accident, so you can refer to the info later.
Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention soon after the crash. Symptoms sometimes don’t show up right away, and doctors who specialize in pain treatment can diagnose your injuries and help you recover faster. Be sure to tell your doctor about any back, neck, or joint pain, as well as any head injuries you suffer in a crash.
Let Excelsia Injury Care Take Care of You After an Accident
There are many concerns after an auto accident, including head injuries. Excelsia Injury Care has a neurologist on staff to focus specifically on brain trauma and other head injuries, and this expertise has helped many patients recover and get pain relief after a car crash. If you have suffered a car accident, let our pain management physicians help you on your road to recovery.