Keeping safe during a British Columbia winter
On Behalf of Porter Ramsay LLP | Nov, 05, 2020 | Uncategorized
It’s that time of year again. Colder weather brings snow, ice and other road dangers that you need to remain aware of as you drive British Columbia’s roadways.
With everything that has gone on in 2020, it might be a good idea to review some of the steps needed in order to remain safe during a normal part of life here in Canada — preparing for winter driving.
Important preparations and driving habits
Avoiding an accident often requires two things: Your ability to control your vehicle and the ability of other drivers to see you coming. Icy intersections, snow, slush and slick traveling conditions may be a normality for you and other British Columbia residents, but that does not mean you can let down your guard. It’s easy to become complacent after living here for a while, but that does not mean you do not need a reminder of the following:
- Make sure your taillights are in good working order so those behind you can easily see that you are slowing or stopping.
- Make sure you turn on your vehicle’s lights all the way and manually. Many vehicles have daytime running lights, but they are not enough to see or be seen on winter days, which mean more darkness than other times of year.
- If your vehicle has an indicator in the dashboard that your lights are one, don’t trust it until you have checked your headlights and taillights in advance of the winter season. It may be wrong.
- Make sure you have winter tires and chains at the ready since many of the country’s roadways require them during this season’s travel. In addition, they provide you with the control that may save you from having an accident.
You may also want to check other aspects of your vehicle to be sure they are in good working order for the winter. You may want to adjust your driving habits again as well. Never take road conditions for granted, especially during inclement weather.
If an accident occurs
You may take precautions to drive safely during the winter months, but not everyone else does. If another person’s negligence causes you significant harm, you may be able to pursue the maximum amount of compensation you need and deserve to get you through what could be a long and arduous recovery. A personal injury attorney could prove invaluable in providing you with much needed guidance and assistance through the process.