Winter in New Hampshire brings unmatched beauty, but it also brings some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year. According to World Population Review, New Hampshire is one the snowiest states in the U.S., second to Alaska. This means for every Granite State resident, preparing for snow, ice, and reduced visibility is not just a suggestion—it's a necessity for safety.
We care deeply about the well-being of our community. By taking a proactive and cautious approach, you can significantly reduce your risk of car accidents and ensure safer travel for yourself and others throughout the season.
Prepare Your Vehicle: The Winterization Check
Before the first snowflake flies, make sure your vehicle is ready to face the cold. This preparation is your first and most vital defense against winter hazards.
Tires: Check your tread depth. Worn-out tires won't grip slick roads effectively. Consider investing in dedicated snow tires for maximum traction and stability. Also, keep your tires properly inflated, as cold weather causes pressure to drop.
Wipers and Fluid: Replace worn-out wiper blades and fill your reservoir with winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing and ensure clear visibility.
Battery: Cold temperatures drain battery power. Have your battery and charging system professionally checked, especially if your battery is over three years old.
Emergency Kit: Stock your trunk with essential supplies, including a shovel, sand or cat litter (for traction), jumper cables, a flashlight, warm blankets, non-perishable food, water, and any necessary medications.
Adopt Safe Driving Habits
When the weather turns, your driving needs to change, too.
Slow Down: This is the most critical rule. Speed limits are for ideal conditions. Drive according to the current road conditions, which often means significantly slower than the posted limit. Remember that Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) helps you go, but it does not help you stop faster on ice.
Increase Following Distance: Stopping on snow or ice can take up to ten times longer than on dry pavement. Increase your following distance to at least 5 to 6 seconds to give yourself the necessary time and space to react.
Be Gentle and Gradual: Accelerate slowly to avoid wheel spin and brake gently to prevent skidding. Avoid sudden or sharp steering maneuvers. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal firmly and steadily; if you don't, pump the brakes gently.
Give Snowplows Space: Snowplows travel more slowly and have limited visibility. Never tailgate a plow or attempt to pass a tandem plowing operation. The road behind the plow is the safest place to be.
Watch for Black Ice: Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas freeze first and are notorious for black ice, which is nearly invisible. Treat these areas with extreme caution by reducing speed and avoiding sudden braking.
What if You Got Into an Accident?
It can be difficult to know what to do next if you get into a collision. Prioritize safety and follow these steps:
Check for Injuries: First, ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or an otherwise safer location to prevent further accidents. If your car is immobilized, turn on your hazard lights.
Contact Law Enforcement: In New Hampshire, you must report an accident to the police. Especially if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. This is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, including road conditions, vehicle damage, and any signs or markers. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), but avoid admitting fault or discussing the accident’s cause at the scene.
New Hampshire Car Accident Lawyers
Winter driving in New Hampshire demands respect, patience, and preparation. By taking these steps, you are protecting not only yourself and your passengers but everyone on the road.
However, even the most careful drivers can be involved in an accident due to the negligence of others or unavoidable conditions. If you or a loved one are injured in a winter-related car accident in New Hampshire, you deserve guidance. Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C. fights back against major insurance companies and ensures you achieve success with your injury claim. We're here for you.
Contact us at (603) 288-1403 for a confidential consultation—we are here to help you navigate the path forward.