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Icy Road Accidents & Motor Vehicle Accidents in RI

There are few road conditions that are more dangerous for drivers than are icy roads. Temperatures hovering at or below freezing, snow, sleet, and freezing rain are all factors that contribute to the risk of ice developing on roads. During the winter much of the U.S. must deal with the risk of icy roads, which have the potential to cause severe accidents. Knowing how to anticipate and react to an ice patch on the road can help to minimize damage or the risk of an accident altogether.

Car accidents on black ice or snow-covered road

Car accidents on black ice or snow-covered roads can be particularly hazardous due to slippery conditions. Black ice refers to a thin layer of ice that forms on road surfaces, often appearing nearly transparent and blending in with the asphalt, making it difficult for drivers to notice. Snow-covered roads can also reduce traction, leading to challenging driving conditions. Here are some tips for driving in these conditions:

  1. Slow Down: Reduce your speed when driving on icy or snowy roads. This allows you more time to react to unexpected situations.
  2. Increase Following Distance: Maintain a greater distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This gives you more time to brake and helps prevent rear-end collisions.
  3. Use Gentle Movements: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or sharp turns. Smooth and gentle movements can help you maintain better control of your vehicle.
  4. Winter Tires: Consider using winter tires, which are designed to provide better traction in cold and snowy conditions. They can make a significant difference in maintaining control on slippery surfaces.
  5. Avoid Cruise Control: Do not use cruise control on icy or snowy roads. You want to have full control over your acceleration and braking.
  6. Stay Informed: Check weather and road conditions before starting your journey. If conditions are severe, consider postponing your trip if possible.
  7. Brake Carefully: If you need to brake, do so gently to avoid skidding. If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure and let the system do its job.
  8. Use Low Gears: When driving downhill, use a lower gear to assist with braking and maintaining control.
  9. Clear Visibility: Keep all windows, mirrors, and lights clear of snow and ice to ensure good visibility.
  10. Be Prepared: Carry essentials like blankets, water, a flashlight, and a fully charged phone in case you get stranded.

Remember, even with precautions, it’s important to drive with extra caution in adverse weather conditions, and if road conditions are extremely treacherous, consider delaying your travel plans. If you find yourself in an accident, stay calm, check for injuries, and contact emergency services if necessary.

Signs of Ice

Before heading out in cold weather, it is important to be prepared for the worst. Always check the weather to see if there are any advisories for your area before driving. When you prepare to begin your drive, look for the following signs of ice on the road:

  • Ice on the driveway or sidewalk to your car. If there is ice on the sidewalk, there may be ice on the streets as well.
  • Snow on the roads. Snow may freeze to a layer of ice overnight, making the roads even more slippery than expected.
  • Light reflecting off the road. Ice can form in clear sheets and may be difficult to see. Light reflecting off the road may be a sign of ice ahead.
  • Cars swerving or sliding on the street. If you see vehicles losing control ahead, there is likely an ice patch. Approach with extreme caution.
  • Braking ahead. Vehicles ahead may be able to see danger before you can. Gauge their reaction so that you can respond appropriately.

How to React

If you hit an ice patch, you will likely feel that you have suddenly lost control of your car. On the contrary, it is still possible to regain control of your vehicle without causing an accident. When you feel your car begin to slide, follow the steps below to minimize your chances of an accident:

  • Do not pump your brakes. If you begin to slide off of the road and must brake, brake once very hard to slow your speed.
  • Steer into the slide. Turn your steering wheel in the direction that the rear of your car is sliding. This will help to prevent you from entirely losing control and spinning on the ice.
  • Drive slowly. Do not try to accelerate out of the ice, you may worsen the situation. Slowly guide your car forward off of the ice, keeping braking to a minimum.

Legal Notice per Rules of Professional Responsibility: The Rhode Island Supreme Court licenses all lawyers and attorneys in the general practice of law, but does not license or certify any lawyer / attorney as an expert or specialist in any field of practice. While this firm maintains joint responsibility, most cases of this type are referred to other attorneys for principle responsibility.

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