Brrrrr! Baby, it’s cold outside! If you’re a New York City driver, you have already had to cope with the severe effects of wintry weather.
Whether it’s snow and icy conditions or extremely low temperatures, winter driving in the Big Apple can be a scary prospect. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers motorists some tips for safer driving in winter, including “the three P’s of Safe Winter Driving” — prepare, protect and prevent.
When you are driving in inclement weather, you need to prepare your vehicle before you leave. That means checking the battery, the tread on your tires and making sure that you added antifreeze. You should also carry jumper cables, snow scrapers and a shovel, a blanket for emergencies and sand or kitty litter to use if you get stuck in a snowdrift.
When it comes to protecting yourself and your passengers, begin with always using seat belts and child safety seats and restraints. Make sure that your child’s car seat is properly fitted. Rear-facing car seats should never be located in front of airbags. Those under 13 should always ride in the back seat, as it is safer.
Preventing accidents begins with you. Make sure that you only drive when sober. Obey all traffic rules and when the weather is bad, reduce your speed accordingly. Keep aware of pedestrians who may not be walking on the sidewalk in a snowstorm. You should leave extra room between your bumper and the car ahead when the weather gets nasty.
Despite your best intentions, you may still be involved in an accident with an at-fault motorist. In these cases, if you file a claim for damages, you may be able to recoup any losses from your injuries and other damages.
