When severe weather hits, it’s typically best to hang out at home and stay off the roads. Wind, snow, and ice make for poor driving conditions, and collisions are likely because vehicles take longer to stop on slippery roads. If you sustained serious injuries in an auto crash because another motorist was not paying attention, a personal injury attorney from The Law Office of Gregory S. Young, based in Cincinnati, OH, will help. In the meantime, read on for some tips for driving in winter weather:

5 Tips From a Personal Injury Attorney for Staying Safe on the Road This Winter

1. Leave Plenty of Stopping Distance

Since it takes longer to stop on icy roads, you want to do everything in your power to avoid stopping short. Leave plenty of stopping distance between you and the cars ahead of you, so, if any of them stop abruptly, you can do so, too, without causing a collision.

2. Check Your Tires

In cold weather, the air in your tires contracts, reducing your tire pressure. Check your tires frequently to ensure they have adequate pressure, so your vehicle handles as well as possible in the snow. Check the treads on your tires, as well, to ensure they are not worn down.

3. Turn Off Cruise Control

Using cruise control in the winter months is dangerous because if your car goes into a skid, the mechanism may prevent you from regaining control of your vehicle immediately. Avoid using cruise control when the conditions are anything but favorable.

4. Limit Distractions

You should limit distractions while driving year-round, but they can be especially dangerous during the wintertime. It is critical that you pay attention to the vehicles around you when conditions are poor.

5. Adjust Your Speed Accordingly

Although it’s a good idea to always follow the speed limit, you may need to reduce your speed below the speed limit in rainy or snowy weather. Adjust your speed based on the conditions around you. For example, even if the speed limit is 60 mph, it may be safer to travel at 45 mph on some occasions.

Unfortunately, you can follow all of the tips above and still find yourself in a collision. If you sustained serious injuries in an auto crash that was someone else’s fault, you will find quality, 24/7 legal representation at The Law Office of Gregory S. Young in Ohio and Kentucky. Visit their website to learn more about their areas of expertise, including medical malpractice and wrongful death, and call (513) 721-1077 to discuss your damages with a personal injury attorney today.