Drivers are faced with numerous dangers on the road every day, but one danger that often gets overlooked is high winds. High winds can last for an extended period of time, blowing at a rate of at least 40 miles per hour or more. High winds can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, pushing them off the road or into another car, potentially resulting in serious injuries.
At Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton, our auto accidents attorneys are experienced in getting client’s the compensation they deserve when injured in a car accident. Our legal team in Salt Lake City, UT is standing by to help you if you become injured in a car accident.
The Dangers of Driving in High Winds
Driving in high winds can be dangerous for everyone on the roadways. High winds can decrease visibility from snow or dust, and cause lanes to become obstructed with debris, such as fallen tree branches. High winds can also be unpredictable and powerful, potentially causing a driver to quickly lose control of his or her car.
Besides the inherent dangers of driving in high winds, drivers can increase their risk of an accident if they don’t modify their driving to weather conditions. Speeding, or driving faster than conditions call for, can be catastrophic when high winds are involved. Distracted driving, such as playing with the radio, talking to passengers, or eating while driving, is particularly dangerous when faced with high winds, as driving in high winds requires more focus due to the increased unpredictability of road conditions.
Reducing Your Risk of an Accident in High Winds
If a storm is approaching and high winds are expected, the best way to keep safe and avoid an accident is to stay off of the roads. If you must drive, these tips may help:
- Slow down: It’s harder to control a vehicle in high winds, especially when driving fast. Slowing down can help drivers maintain control as well as help them avoid hazards, such as road obstructions or other accidents caused by high winds.
- Keep a safe distance from others: Stay far away from other vehicles on the road, especially large trucks and buses, which are more likely to be affected by high winds. Keeping a safe distance can give drivers enough time to stop in the event of an accident or other obstruction.
- Don’t drive over downed power lines: Power lines may get knocked down by high winds. It’s important to never drive over downed power lines as they could send a fatal dose of electricity through you and your car.
- Keep both hands on the wheel: Drivers should always keep both hands on their steering wheel, especially while driving through high winds. Using both hands helps drivers maintain control of their vehicle when faced with unpredictable gusts or steady high winds.
Contact the Auto Accident Attorneys of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, our experienced auto accident attorneys can help you recover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages. To learn more about your legal options, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.