It is said that if you don’t like the weather in Ohio, wait a few minutes. However, there is one month where the weather seems to wreak havoc on the roads and cause a spike in car accidents: February. February brings with it a recipe for disaster on the roads, as snow, rain, fog, sleet, and ice make their appearances practically daily. Even when the sun is shining, the temperatures can plummet without warning, leaving roads icy and treacherous. It’s no wonder February significantly increases car accidents throughout Ohio. Drivers must be especially vigilant during this month, as changing weather conditions can make for a dangerous commute. Remembering that car accidents in Ohio are a common occurrence in February, it’s essential to remain cautious and prepared for winter driving.
Common Causes of Winter Accidents
Slippery Roads: A Major Danger
One of the biggest dangers of inclement weather is slippery roads, which can lead to skidding and accidents. To combat this, it is essential to slow down and drive with extra caution. It is also recommended to increase the distance between you and the car in front of you to give yourself more time to react if they stop suddenly. If you experience a skid, steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can send you into a spin.
In February of 2023, a total of 674 accidents took place due to the slippery winter roads. This number is staggering and indicates how dangerous winter driving can be. Of those accidents, a vast majority involved property damage, where vehicles slid into ditches, guardrails, and other stationary objects. In addition, nearly 25% of all accidents involved personal injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Reduced Visibility: Another Significant Factor
Reduced visibility is another significant factor contributing to car accidents during inclement weather. Fog, rain, and snow can all impair your ability to see the road and other vehicles. To combat this, ensure your windshield wipers are in good working condition and turn on your headlights, even during the day. Pulling over and waiting for the storm to pass may be necessary in heavy snow or rain.
Ohio is a state that suffers from reduced visibility due to extreme weather conditions, such as fog, snow, and rain. According to statistics, around 500 accidents occurred in Ohio in February 2023, half due to reduced visibility. It is clear from the figures that the lack of visibility caused by bad weather is one of the significant reasons for accidents in Ohio.
Among all the accidents that happened due to reduced visibility, the majority involved vehicles, especially cars and trucks. These vehicles were mostly involved in rear-end collisions and lost control of their vehicles while driving on slippery roads. The accidents were not limited to highways and main roads but also residential areas. The accidents caused significant property damage and physical injuries to the commuters.
Speeding: The Dangers of Speeding in February in Ohio
Speeding has been identified as a significant contributing factor to car accidents during February in Ohio. The colder weather often makes drivers rush or feel overconfident because of a 4-wheel drive. However, it is crucial to remember that speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected conditions. Even if a vehicle has all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive capabilities, it does not guarantee immunity from accidents on slippery roads.
In February 2023, Ohio recorded 537 accidents attributed to speed and winter conditions. These accidents resulted in 24 fatalities and 68 pedestrians being hit. Accidents on highways or interstates have the most reported instances, with 250. Secondary roads accounted for 160 accidents, followed by 127 accidents on city streets.
The collected data clearly shows that most accidents occurred during inclement weather, which is typical for Ohio in January and February. These incidents involved snowstorms, ice, and heavy rainfall. The data also indicates that most drivers were exceeding the posted speed limit at the time of the accidents.
Navigating Inclement Weather Safely
Ohio residents know all too well how unpredictable and dangerous the weather can be during February. Remember to slow down, increase your stopping distance, and drive extra caution during inclement weather. Keep your windshield wipers and headlights in good working condition, and pull over if visibility becomes too poor.
Who do you call for a car accident?
Knowing whom to call and what actions to take is essential after a winter car accident. The police should always be called first to ensure the safety and security of everyone involved in the accident. Likewise, remember to contact your insurance company immediately to begin filing a claim. In addition, if necessary, don’t forget to seek assistance from a reputable lawyer who can represent you in case of injury or property damage. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of family and friends who can offer emotional support and help you navigate the process.
Negligent Driving and Legal Representation
Winter driving conditions can be treacherous, especially when negligent drivers fail to take appropriate precautions. It’s not uncommon for car accidents to occur due to careless drivers who refuse to adjust their driving to suit the weather. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation where you’re injured because of another driver’s negligence, seeking legal representation can make all the difference. With the help of an experienced auto accident lawyer, navigating the legal process can be a lot less daunting. Your attorney can provide legal support and guidance to ensure you receive the appropriate compensation for your damages and advocate for your rights.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney for Assistance
Even the most skilled and cautious drivers can be caught off guard by the season’s treacherous driving conditions. Unfortunately, accidents can happen anytime, and when they do, it’s important to have someone in your corner who can help you navigate the legal process and recover damages. That’s where the best car accident attorneys come in. To find a team of experts who know what it takes to fight for your rights and ensure fair compensation for all your losses, look for the best car accident lawyers near you. Fortunately, you don’t have to search too far.
Call us at 419-843-6663 to get started, or use our easy online contact form today.
A free consultation with one of our experienced car accident attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault can offer peace of mind. Our consultations can offer guidance on legal options, case evaluations, and potential compensation. The free consultations assure accident victims of legal assistance without financial cost. Personal Injury cases are taken on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Jonathan Ashton, Partner and Personal Injury Attorney, began his law career at GT&B in 2007 as a law clerk. He was hired as an associate immediately after passing the Ohio Bar in 2008. Jonathan practices in Personal Injury, representing clients who have been injured and need justice and compensation for them to move forward in their lives.
