Drivers in New Jersey should keep the following tips in mind before they head out in icy or snowy conditions. It all starts with having a properly winterized vehicle. A mechanic could check components like the battery, brakes, spark plugs and ignition. The mechanic could also ensure the right tire pressure and antifreeze levels.
Drivers should know the function of any safety features in their vehicles. The National Safety Council and the University of Iowa have a campaign called, My Car Does What? which is intended to educate drivers about new vehicle safety technologies. Even without these, drivers likely have anti-lock braking and traction control. Both are useful in winter conditions. On the other hand, it’s best to avoid using cruise control and the parking brake.
Sharing travel routes with another is important. Another tip is to wait out a storm whenever possible. Drivers should never leave their vehicle running in the garage to warm it up, as this could cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Keeping an emergency kit is recommended; this could contain a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, an ice scraper and blankets.
Safe driving consists of several practices. Drivers should accelerate and decelerate slowly, keep an 8-to-10-second distance from other vehicles and keep the gas tank above half full. When stuck in snow, they should never push their vehicle out.
Neglecting these tips will only increase the risk for an auto accident. Those who are injured through little or no fault of their own can file a claim and possibly be reimbursed for their medical bills, vehicle repair costs and other losses. Having legal representation might be beneficial. A lawyer may opt to hire third parties to gather proof against the defendant and show that the reported injuries are all accident-related. The lawyer might then proceed to negotiations.