Avoid The Need For A Bay Area Accident Lawyer
Our Oakland auto accident lawyers, fortunately, do not have to deal with too many cases of black ice driving because the Bay Area generally stays above freezing, even during the worst winter months. However, many people do get seriously hurt right here in Oakland and in San Francisco—as well as in nearby places like Tahoe and Mammoth—due to slippery winter weather.
To that end, how can you drive on so-called “black ice” effectively and minimize your chances of needing a personal injury lawyer in the future?
Black ice is ice that’s relatively invisible on the road. It might look like a patch of water or almost like nothing at all. But when you hit it, the ice causes your wheels to lose traction, and you lose control of the vehicle. Here’s what to do:
- Be watchful for black ice, particularly at dusk. As the sun goes down, cooling rainwater can form a slick surface. Be careful on shaded roads, overpasses, and bridges.
- During winter time, avoid using cruise control, even on the highway.
- Limit your lane changes during stormy or brooding weather. The more times you change lanes, the more likely you are to hit a slick patch.
- Reduce the miles you clock when it’s sleety or slushy. Statistically, you will be less likely to encounter a patch and get into an accident.
- Drive appropriately for road conditions. As a rule of thumb, go slowly. Brake slowly. Make slow turns. Leave a larger than normal space cushion between your vehicle and any vehicle in front of you.
- Eliminate distractions. Avoid chatting on the cellphone (even on a hands-free headset), blasting loud music in your vehicle, or driving fatigued or under the influence of alcohol.
- Prepare your car for winter. Do all your maintenance, and prepare an emergency kit that contains a charged cellphone, flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, food, flares, etc.
If You Are Hurt, Call The Expert San Francisco Accident Attorney
If you need help obtaining compensation or strategizing after a black ice–related crash, call a car accident attorney with Vega Lawyer right now at 415-287-6200 to schedule a consultation.