Dixie Highway does not need any help when it comes to being dangerous. Considered by many to be one of the most dangerous driving arteries in Louisville, the highway's many intersections and long, dark stretches see many accidents, injuries and fatalities even when the weather is clear.
Therefore, adding snow, sleet or freezing ran to the mixture increases the danger. However, just because the weather is bad does not always mean you can avoid the highway or any stretch of road. Knowing how to drive in such conditions may be your best protection.
Defensive driving in the winter
The first few snow or ice storms are usually the most dangerous as people re-learn how to control their vehicles on slick roads. Some of the conditions you might experience in a typical Kentucky winter may include fog, ice or snow.
Any of these can cause driving conditions to deteriorate rapidly. You can plan ahead by keeping these three precautions in mind:
- Drive slower than the posted speed limit.
- Leave extra space between you and the car ahead of you.
- Make sure your car is serviced and ready for winter on the road.
If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, be careful not to unwittingly become a hazard. Operating a four-wheel drive vehicle, or one with other winter safety features, can cause some drivers to be overconfident or feel invincible and take dangerous chances.
What to do if you have an accident in a winter storm
Not everyone on the road will be driving defensively or have the skills to control a skidding vehicle. It is not out of the question that your fender-bender may quickly become a multi-vehicle accident, so follow common sense to keep yourself safe.
If you are involved in an accident, you may want to do the following:
- Remain in your vehicle until it is safe to exit.
- If you are injured or property damage is substantial, call for police and medical help.
- If you are able, take pictures of the accident scene, road conditions and damage to the vehicles.
- If conditions allow, exchange information with the other driver: names, insurance information and registration.
Discussing your accident with an attorney as soon as possible will give you a good idea of what steps to take next. Your attorney will examine your pictures as well as the police report and any other evidence to establish if there is cause for seeking damages and the best course of action to follow. If it is determined that the other driver acted negligently, your attorney may recommend pursuing a legal means of compensation.
