3 common causes of winter auto accidents

 Posted on December 06, 2017 in Blog

When winter hits Illinois, it hits hard. Driving in the snow can be treacherous, especially when you cannot see well and the roads are icy. Inclement weather conditions such as rain, sleet and snow are common contributors to auto collisions. But did you know winter car accidents are deadlier than hurricanes, tornadoes and floods?

That is right. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, weather-related car accidents cause more fatalities than those natural disasters. These accidents kill approximately 5,900 people a year. So why are these crashes so deadly? Here are some of the most common ways that winter weather can contribute to serious car accidents. 

1. Poor visibility

Heavy snowfall, blinding rain and dense fog can significantly reduce your ability to see what is in front of you. Bursts of snow and rain can negatively impact your ability to see within seconds. If other drivers fail to adjust to these conditions and speed or follow too closely, they can easily cause an accident. 

2. Icy roads

Ice on the streets makes it more difficult for you to accelerate, brake, turn or reverse. Everyone on the road should exercise extra caution when driving on ice. Even a small amount of ice from a light drizzle can cause a dangerous driving situation. Ice commonly builds up on bridges. 

3. Bald tires

Many drivers neglect to check up on their car tires before heading out on the road. If another motorist has bald tires on his or her car, the tires will not be able to grip the road effectively. Due to the lack of traction, he or she could run into you. 

The winter months mean a lot of cold weather, ice and snow for Illinois drivers like you. With these common causes of winter accidents in mind, you can take steps to ensure you are safe while braving the streets this winter.