Arkansas Injury Lawyer Blog
Winter conditions can make travel along Arkansas roads dangerous. The Arkansas Highway Department recommends that motorists stay off Arkansas roads during ice and snow storms. However, sometimes that is not an option for some people. The following winter driving tips were listed on the Department’s website:
Wear your seat belt, and make sure all passengers-including children-are buckled up.
Remember that ice forms first on bridges, overpasses and shady areas. If you hit a patch of ice, stay off your brakes and decelerate slowly, holding the car steady as you go over the ice.
Speed is the main problem with driving on ice. Adjust your speed to fit the weather conditions. Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you.
If your car goes into a skid, take your foot off the gas pedal but don’t hit the brake. Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go. As the car straightens out, you will be able to regain traction and control.
Check your car battery before cold weather sets in. Battery power dips in cold weather.
Keep blankets, a first-aid kit, flares, jumper cables, tire chains, a flashlight, ice scraper and gloves in your car. Take a food supply of candy bars or dried fruit in case you become stranded.
Keep the gasoline level as high as possible to prevent water condensation in the tank.
Check the automobile’s motor oil, transmission fluid, ignition system, lights, heater, cooling system and wipers
Arkansas motorists must also be aware that we must follow Arkansas traffic laws during winter weather. It is not an excuse for a driver to blame bad road conditions for running a stop sign, red light, or violating any other traffic law. In Arkansas, violations of Arkansas traffic laws can be used as evidence of negligence in a lawsuit or insurance claim. If you or a family member has been injured due to the negligence of another driver, please contact a Little Rock Arkansas accident lawyer today to discuss your legal rights.