The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping. Here in Colorado, that means that winter weather will be around for a few months. Now would be a good time for a reminder about driving in it since not being prepared could lead to serious and even fatal motor vehicle accidents.
Of course, if Colorado residents had the option, they would probably stay home by a nice fire with a hot beverage and a good movie when the weather is bad, but most do not have that choice. Instead, they have to make sure that they get to their destinations safely. In order to do so, precautions need to be taken.
Being told to avoid driving when tired, distracted or impaired may seem like obvious advice, but it still needs saying. When the roads are wet, slick, snowy or icy, paying attention takes on more significance, but it is about more than that. Drivers should slow down, increase braking and following distance and not stop if possible. Stopping should happen slowly instead of slamming on the brakes.
Warming up a vehicle makes sense, but should not be done in a garage or some other enclosed area. Keep the tires in good condition and make sure they are properly inflated. Vehicle equipment such as the parking brake and cruise control are not a driver’s friend in inclement weather. Using them could make a bad situation worse.
Even if a driver follows all of the rules, it certainly does not mean that every driver will. Fatal motor vehicle accidents happen when people fail to pay attention and don’t take their duty to drive safely seriously. For those who lose their loved ones on one of Colorado’s roadways in winter or any other season, it may be possible to pursue restitution from the party or parties believed to be at fault.