Missouri Accident Lawyer Blog

As a personal injury lawyer in St. Louis, Missouri, I always "quarterback" the plays that happen after someone has sustained a serious injury in a car, truck or motorcycle accident. I never get the opportunity to speak with people about how to prevent injury. With the winter months quickly approaching, I thought this would be a good time to remind people of a few things that might help them avoid becoming a personal injury victim this winter. Here are some suggestions I have for Missouri drivers who want to be as safe as possible.

1. Check the tires on your vehicle. All tires should have sufficient tread depth so they have good contact with the ground. Here is a good rule of thumb. Take a penny and stick it within the tread of your tire with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can Lincoln's entire head, you need new tires.

2. Make sure your windshield wiper blades are good. All too often people find themselves out in inclement weather with bad wipers. Bad wipers cannot remove all the snow, ice or water from your windshield.

3. Remember that stopping distances are severely increased when there is snow and ice on the ground. Even with ABS, put more distance between you and the car in front of you so you can compensate for this.

4. When accelerating, do so in a steady, smooth manner to avoid spinning your wheels.

5. If you have traction control, always drive with it on.

6. Make sure your headlamps work and are bright.

7. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your car so if you do find yourself in the need of medical attention, you have the basic necessary items to treat a wound.

8. When entering a turn, do so slowly.

9. Put a blanket in your trunk just in case you find yourself stuck on the road for an extended period of time in the cold.

10. Make sure your car has been serviced to handle cold weather so you don't break down.

Following these ten tips can help you avoid car troubles and car wrecks. Have a safe and happy holiday season and most importantly, drive safe!