The holiday time brings with it traveling to see friends and relatives. It also brings inclement weather and hazardous road conditions. Any experienced Philadelphia personal injury lawyer will agree, it is better to avoid an accident than go through litigation after being injured. A few driving tips are included to help keep people safe during the holiday months.
Driving for Conditions
Most have learned the two second rule when it comes to driving. A driver should always keep a two second cushion between themselves and the vehicle in front of them. But it is important to remember, the two second rule applies to optimal driving conditions. When pavement is wet or snow packed, at least twice the distance should be kept.
For example, the average car traveling 50 mph in optimal driving conditions requires at least 198 feet to stop, after taking into account average reaction time and braking time. But when speed is reduced by only 10 mph, the stopping distance is lowered to approximately 139 feet. When roads are wet, the distance can be twice that length, and even longer in icy conditions. Slowing down in bad conditions is rule number one for safety.
Testing the road conditions as soon as leaving the house is a good idea, before getting on main roads. After exiting the driveway, and after making sure traffic is clear, move the vehicle a short distance and then apply the brakes firmly and feel for any skid or swerving. If so, adjust driving habits accordingly.
Though people often rush out of the house and are anxious to get to their destination, make sure all windows are properly defrosted. Visibility is bad enough in the winter months without aggravating the conditions by using “peek hole” vision.
In the event the vehicle does become stranded, the cell phone becomes the motorist’s best friend. During bad weather and traveling any distance, the phone should be fully charged and taken with the motorist.
There are a few items that should be kept in the vehicle in case of a mishap. These include:
- Blanket and old warm clothes;
- Bottled Water;
- First aid kit;
- Flashlight with new batteries;
- Jumper cables or a portable charging machine;
- A few screwdrivers and wrenches;
- A folding type camping shovel;
- Cat litter- it can be spread under wheels to create traction if the vehicle is stuck.
Almost all of these items can be stored in a corner of the trunk, without using a great amount of space. And a final reminder about driving under the influence, do not do so under any circumstances, regardless of weather conditions.
This article is from Karleia Steiner, who works as a freelance blogger and consultant. You can follow her on Google+.
