If you have spent time in Washington during the winter, you know how snow and rain can make driving challenging. The consistent rain throughout the year can lead to underestimating the hazards when colder months arrive, potentially increasing the risk of a dangerous auto accident.
Cold temperatures combined with precipitation can create black ice on the roads. This nearly invisible ice may cause you to lose control of your vehicle, especially when visibility is low. These hazards can result in serious—and sometimes tragic—car crashes.
Our seasoned personal injury attorneys have years of experience in the legal field and have witnessed multiple stories and cases of severe and minor crashes. In this blog, our Washington-based car accident attorneys at The Gilbert Law Firm provide some tips for staying safe in wintry conditions.
Smart Tips for Safe Winter Driving Around Washington
Here are some of the most effective ways to stay safe on the road during winter:
- Don’t drive under the influence. The winter months mean you will probably be celebrating during the holidays. It is absolutely imperative that you don’t drive if you have been drinking or taking drugs. Calling a taxi or Uber or having a friend drive you to your destination is best.
- Don’t drive if you don’t have to. You’re practically guaranteed to avoid a car accident if your vehicle stays safely parked in your garage.
- Slow down. There’s no destination so important that it’s worth jeopardizing your life. Drive slowly, especially at night, in poor weather conditions, or in areas where you are unsure about road conditions.
- Keep your headlights on. If you are driving in rain, sleet, or snow, be sure to keep your headlights on. This improves your visibility of the road and makes you more noticeable to other drivers.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. The last thing you want to do is crowd other cars, especially those in front of you. Give yourself plenty of room to brake or maneuver if road conditions are bad.
- Eliminate distractions. Keep both hands on the steering wheel during bad weather. Don’t text or talk on the phone—it is even a bad idea to drink coffee or change radio stations.
Contact a reliable personal injury attorney if a winter accident has impacted you despite taking precautions. At The Gilbert Law Firm, we’re here to guide you through the next steps with care and support.
How to Prepare for Winter Driving in Washington State
Preparation is key. Here’s how you can get your vehicle ready long before the first snowflakes fall:
- Maintain your car – Stick to a regular maintenance schedule, including oil changes. Check your tire pressure and tread regularly.
- Stock emergency supplies – Always be sure to keep tire chains, a cell phone and charger, flares, a first aid kit, blankets, food, water, and flashlights in your car in case of an emergency.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full – Never let your gas tank drop below half full. In severe weather or a traffic jam, you could be stuck in your car for hours, and you don’t want to risk losing heat or running out of gas far from home.
- Replace your wipers – New windshield wipers can greatly improve visibility and make it easier to drive in adverse conditions.
- Practice putting on tire chains – It’s helpful to practice this in advance so you’re prepared if you need to use them.
What to Do After an Accident in Washington State
Getting into a car accident can be a stressful experience, especially in harsh winter conditions. However, knowing the right steps to take afterward can help protect your rights and ensure your safety. Here’s what you should do immediately after a car accident in Washington:
What to Do After a Car Accident Due to Snowstorm
- Ensure safety first: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, and call 911 if there are any serious injuries.
- Call law enforcement: Reporting the accident to the police is crucial, especially if there are injuries or significant vehicle damage. A police report can serve as valuable evidence.
- Exchange information: If another driver is at fault or involved, the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This documentation can support your case if you file a claim.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide accurate information, but avoid admitting fault.
- Consult an attorney: Before making statements to insurance adjusters or accepting any settlement offers, consult with a skilled car accident attorney to protect your rights.
In Washington State, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident (Revised Code of Washington (RCW) § 4.16.080). This means you have a limited timeframe to take legal action if you wish to pursue compensation for claims such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Other damages
Failing to file within this period could prevent you from recovering any compensation.
Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys at The Gilbert Law Firm Today
If you’re involved in a car accident in Washington, the Gilbert Law Firm is here to help and answer your concerns. As one of Spokane’s leading personal injury firms, we are committed to helping families obtain the compensation they deserve after the crash. Our legal team is dedicated to advocating for our clients both at the negotiating table and in the courtroom.
Contact us at 509-321-0750 to speak to one of our experienced Washington car accident lawyers. Let’s discuss the best legal recourse for your case.
