This Winter, Let’s keep Slips, Slides and Crashes on the Hockey Rink – Not the Roads

At Casey Law Offices, S.C., we focus exclusively on prosecuting injury claims to ensure negligent individuals and businesses are held responsible for irresponsible behavior resulting in injury so those harmed are fairly compensated. We represent Wisconsinites who have suffered a variety of injuries, including those related to car accidents due to irresponsible drivers.

This Winter, Let’s keep Slips, Slides and Crashes on the Hockey Rink– Not the Roads

Much of Wisconsin was treated to a White Christmas this year. The snow may be pretty, but it can be treacherous when traveling home from visiting with relatives and friends. Snow, slush, and icy roads cause out-of-the-ordinary challenges for drivers andare involved in nearly one in four weather-related vehicle crashes, according to the US Department of Transportation. These conditions make driving incredibly difficult, increasing the chances of an accident.

Despite your best efforts to prepare for winter driving, you may still find yourself in a multi-car accident. Weather-related accidents can involve multiple vehicles and cause serious injuries and property damages, all of which can create a highly complexlegal situation. Who is to blame? Whose insurance company or companies should pay? What role did the weather play and how do you compensate for that? These are questions and issues we can help you sort out. Prepared drivers are better equipped tohandle the challenges of driving in dangerous conditions and are more likely to steer clear of accidents.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation offers these tips for travel in winter weather:

• Plan multiple routes and drive as carefully as possible.
• Notify others of your itinerary so you can be found in the event of an accident.
• Call or check 511 or 511wi.gov for traveler information. Also, check the weather before you embark on a trip.
• Don’t travel alone if at all possible.
• Beware of ice patches.
• Be as aware of your location at all times, as this will be useful in case you are run off the road or otherwise involved in a crash. This way, you will more likely be found by law enforcement or a tow truck.
• If the driving conditions become too treacherous, go to a safe location as soon as possible.
• If your car encounters any issue, don’t leave the vehicle and maintain your engine and heater at various intervals. Hoswever, beware of carbon monoxide poisoning by leaving a window slightly open.

It is a good idea to keep a winter driving survival kit in your car during the cold months–including an ice scraper, a small snow shovel, and sand or salt. It’s also wise to check your tires to ensure they have solid tread and have appropriate air pressure.Additionally, it is important you keep your gas tank as full as possible at all times. Checking your windshield wipers is essential as well, as is ensuring you have plenty of windshield fluid, including an extra bottle in the car at all times.

No matter how hard you try to prevent them from occurring, accidents still happen. If injured, consider the following tips:

• Immediately seek medical attention, and don’t walk home. Make sure you keep all of your medical documentation for later, as well as any other expenses resulting from the accident.

• Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company until you have consulted with a trusted Wisconsin personal injury attorney. We will help you discuss your options regarding any injuries or damages.

Contact Us

For a skilled Wisconsin personal injury lawyer, please call the Casey Law Offices at (414) 272-5564–we are here to help.