Tips for Safe Winter Driving

Staying safe and following the rules of the road is always important. It becomes even more important during the winter months when roads and driving conditions are less than ideal.

It is during this time that our team at Dye and Russell Personal Injury Lawyers see an increase in vehicle accidents among other seasonal accidents such as a slip and fall.

Contacting a #personalinjury lawyer if you have been involved in an accident is one of the first things you should do. The experts at Dye and Russell have experience working with #vehicleaccident claims and understand your frustrations. We are here to get you what you deserve and make recovery as smooth as possible.

If you plan on driving anywhere this winter, here’s what you should know.

 

  1. Winterize your vehicle. 

 Prepare your vehicle for the Canadian winters by taking the necessary precautions.

  • Change your tires from all-seasons to winter tires.
  • Properly defrost windows and remove any obstructions like ice.
  • Update your car safety-kit with winter items like an ice scraper.

Failing to equip your vehicle with the proper tires or performing regular maintenance could lead to an accident and potentially cause serious #injury. In instances when an accident has occurred reaching out to an experienced personal injury lawyer can help answer many of the questions you will no doubt have.

  1. Keep fluid levels topped up.

In addition to regular maintenance, it is important to keep your fluids (like gas and windshield-washer fluid) topped up. Condensation in the gas tank has the potential to freeze and cause problems and a lack of windshield-washer fluid can limit visibility when driving.

The lack of visibility is a serious risk while driving in winter conditions. It is easy for ice to build up and for a vehicle to spin out of control. Should you find yourself in this situation and an accident you have been involved in has caused injuries, you should contact an expert like the lawyers at Dye and Russell. They work quickly and diligently to ensure you receive the financial and physical compensation you deserve.

  1. Wipe off your vehicle.

Wiping snow off your vehicle reduces the likelihood of snow sliding off and obstructing the view of drivers behind you. Drivers who have been involved in an accident because of the #negligence of another person should speak with a lawyer immediately.

  1. Have a cellphone. 

In the event of an accident, having a cellphone will allow you to connect with help and emergency services (if needed). It also gives you the ability to connect with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following the accident. When you fast dial #1000 from your cellphone, you will be connected with our team at Dye and Russell Personal Injury Lawyers. Helping you from the start is part of the Dye and Russell experience.

By no means should a cellphone be used by the individual while driving; drivers should pull off to the side of the road before making a call.

  1. Adjust for the road conditions. 

No matter what tips you follow, adjust your driving to match the road conditions. It is your responsibility to be a safe driver and take the necessary precautions.

 

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, contact the experts at Dye and Russell Personal Injury Lawyers. Their team of professionals have years of experience in #personalinjury law and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call and book your FREE consultation today at 1-877-883-6171 or fast dial #1000 on your cell phone.

Skye OliverTips for Safe Winter Driving
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For active seniors: a guide to safe walking in the winter

Winter can be a beautiful season in Canada. But, the cold weather brings with it lots of hazards—especially while getting around. Whether you’re out and about to enjoy the season, or just get from point A to point B, you need to be careful.

Sustaining an injury from slippery conditions on the ground can bring with it serious long-term health problems and a fear of staying active. To prevent a slip and fall this winter here is the Canada Safety Council guide for active Canadian seniors:

1. Make your pathway a safe one

Make sure that surfaces around your home are safe by having them cleared of snow and sprinkled with salt, or sand, if necessary. If you have trouble removing the ice and snow on your own contact a local support agency or other community services for assistance. Report hazards on your walkways to your landlord or your municipal government.

However, while venturing beyond your property you have less control when it comes to the conditions you will face. Carrying a small bag of sand or non-clumping cat litter with you can come in handy when confronted by icy sidewalks while out and about.

2. Be prepared for the weather conditions

Dressing for the weather can make all the difference while you’re out and about in the winter. Proper footwear is key. Wear boots that are insulated, waterproof and light-weight with wide heels, and soles that are thick, treaded and non-slip.

For added grip in icy conditions ice grippers can be helpful but they can easily become dangerous and need to be removed before walking on smooth surfaces like tiles. Be careful if you are considering using them.

To help with balance walking aids like a cane (which an ice pick can be added to) or a walker can help. Also, wearing a hip protector and bright or reflective clothing can help prevent injury while walking outdoors.

3. Know what to do if you’re caught on ice

Walking on ice should be avoided, but if somehow you end up caught on an ice patch on your route walking in a certain way can help make you more stable. First, slow down, keep your body loose and your base wide (feet more than a foot apart). Keep your knees loose but bent to lower your centre of gravity and make your steps with your whole foot, shifting your weight slowly before bringing your feet together again. If shuffling your feet feels better just remember to keep a wide base.

Unfortunately, despite everything we do to prepare for a safe walk we can meet unsafe conditions while outside in the winter. A slip and fall outdoors due to dangerous conditions can change your life.

Fast dial #1000 free from your cell and we’ll get you the support you need.

gray_adminFor active seniors: a guide to safe walking in the winter
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