Winter Driving Safety Tips in Ohio
Car accidents increase substantially during Ohio’s icy winters. Many of these crashes happen because drivers don’t take proper precautions or adjust their actions for poor road conditions.
At Amourgis & Associates, we want everyone to stay safe when winter weather hits and avoid making the roads more dangerous for others. We encourage everyone in Ohio to use sound judgment and make sure their vehicles are ready for winter weather.
Common Winter Driving Hazards
Some winter driving hazards to watch out for include:
- Snow and Ice on the Road – Snow and ice can reduce tire traction, making it harder to stop, turn, or control your vehicle. Black ice is particularly dangerous because it’s nearly invisible but extremely slick. It often forms on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.
- Reduced Visibility – Falling snow, sleet, fog, and frost on your windshield can impede your ability to see the road, other vehicles, or traffic signs. Poor visibility makes it harder to react in time to sudden changes, increasing the chances of a crash.
- Longer Stopping Distances – On icy or snow-covered roads, your car often takes much longer to come to a complete stop. If you follow too closely or brake too late, you’re more likely to rear-end another vehicle.
- Slippery Intersections – Snow and slush often build up at intersections where cars stop and start frequently. These areas can become slick quickly, causing drivers to skid into cross traffic or lose control when accelerating.
- Improperly Cleared Vehicles – Snow left on the roof, windows, or headlights of a car can reduce your vision and create hazards for other drivers. Snow or ice flying off your car can also hit vehicles behind you.
- Tire and Brake Issues – Cold weather can cause tires to lose pressure, reducing their grip on the road. Make sure you have solid snow tires in place before winter hits. Brakes may also be less responsive in extreme cold, especially if moisture causes components to freeze or stiffen.
Essential Tips for Driving in the Snow
Follow these tips to reduce your chances of a winter weather accident in Ohio:
- Slow Down – Reduce your speed when driving in snow or on icy roads. High speeds make it harder to stop and easier to lose control, especially when turning or braking. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely so you aren’t tempted to speed.
- Increase Following Distance – Give yourself more room behind the car in front of you—at least six to eight seconds. This allows for longer stopping distances and helps you avoid rear-end collisions if the car ahead suddenly brakes.
- Brake Gently – You could wind up in a skid if you slam on the brakes while driving on an icy or snow-covered road. Instead, apply steady pressure to the brakes. If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the brake pedal firmly and don’t pump it.
- Use Your Headlights – Turn on your headlights to increase visibility, even during the day. Snowy conditions can make it harder for other drivers to see you, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Clear Snow Off Your Vehicle – Remove snow and ice from your windshield, mirrors, lights, roof, and hood before driving. Leftover snow can block your view or fly off and hit other cars.
- Avoid Sudden Movements – Quick turns, stops, or accelerations can cause your vehicle to slide. Make slow, steady movements to stay in control.
- Know How to Recover from a Skid – If your rear wheels slide, turn your steering wheel in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Stay calm and avoid slamming the brakes to regain traction.
Is It Legal to Drive with Snow on Your Car?
Ohio law doesn’t specifically say you must remove snow from your car’s roof or windshield. However, that doesn’t mean it’s legal to drive around with snow piled on your vehicle.
State law says it’s illegal to operate a car “in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person.” If snow or ice flies off your vehicle and causes another driver to swerve, crash, or get hurt, the fact that you didn’t clean off your roof could meet the definition of an “unsafe condition” under the law. In that case, you might face a minor misdemeanor charge, the penalties for which include a fine of up to $50.
You could also be financially responsible in a civil lawsuit if a crash happens because you didn’t clean snow off your car. Even if you didn’t cause the crash directly, failing to clean your car properly puts others at risk. Taking a few extra minutes to clear snow from your roof, hood, windows, and lights helps keep everyone on the road safer—and could protect you from legal trouble.
Preparing for Winter Travel in Akron, Ohio
Make sure your car is ready before heading out in winter weather conditions around Akron. Start by checking your tires—make sure they have enough tread and are properly inflated, as cold air can lower tire pressure.
It’s also a good idea to test your battery, brakes, lights, and windshield wipers. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent your car’s fuel lines from freezing. Pack an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, a small shovel, an ice scraper, snacks, water, and a phone charger. If you have room in your car, consider keeping a bag of salt, sand, or kitty litter in the trunk in case you get stuck and need traction.
Check the weather and road conditions before you leave, and allow extra time to reach your destination safely. If your trip isn’t essential, it might be a good idea to stay home until the roads are clear.
Our Ohio Accident Attorneys are Here to Help
No matter how careful you are, you can’t control what other drivers do in winter weather. Amourgis & Associates can help you seek fair compensation if another driver injured you in a weather-related accident. We’ve recovered millions of dollars for our clients and can provide the honest, straightforward legal advice you need. We can handle all the legal work in your case, including a thorough evaluation of your losses and preparation of your case for trial if necessary. You don’t owe us any fees unless you recover compensation. Call now or complete our contact form for a free case review.
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At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we only represent consumers. We fight for regular people who have been seriously hurt in accidents. We fight for people who are being crushed by overwhelming debt and need a fresh start. We fight for individuals and families. Never businesses. Never insurance companies. We are loyal to the consumer.
