Even in California, winter weather conditions sometimes present challenges for drivers. Fortunately, there are safety features like traction control that are now standard on most vehicles on the market today. While such features can make it easier to navigate snowy, icy or wet surfaces, especially when trying to get up slick steep hills, some vehicle owners are not fully aware of what safety options are at their disposal. This is why the National Safety Council is making an effort to educate drivers.
The NSC also stresses the need for drivers to take additional steps to reduce the risk of motor vehicle accidents during inclement weather. The non-profit public service organization further recommends that drivers take time to properly warm-up their vehicles on cold days. However, they warn against leaving a vehicle running in an enclosed space due to the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Also, the NSC suggests that drivers share their travel plans with a friend or loved one if the weather looks iffy. When a vehicle does become stranded, they recommend staying put until help arrives and checking the exhaust pipe for mud and other obstructions. They also stress the importance of drivers having a mechanic check the ignition, brakes, tire/air pressure and battery life before heading out on the road when conditions are dicey. In the event of a whiteout, the NSC urges drivers to pull over and refrain from getting behind the wheel again until conditions improve.
Whether a vehicle accident involves driver or passenger injuries, an attorney could make an effort to determine if negligence on the part of another party may have been the cause. Under certain circumstances, a driver may also be held legally responsible for an accident if their negligent actions resulted in passenger injuries.