Fishkill Injury Attorney Serving Wappingers Falls, Beacon, Lagrangeville and Nearby Areas of Hudson Valley

If you plan on traveling for the Holidays, it’s a good idea to be prepared. This means taking time to ensure your vehicle is in peak condition and that it is stocked with supplies you may need if you find yourself stranded on the road.

Vehicle Inspection

Before you drive in the winter, especially on longer drives, you should give your vehicle a quick inspection to make sure it’s good to go. This includes checking the windshield wipers, tire tread and pressure, lights and turn signals, and fluid levels such as antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. Be sure to also check gas and oil levels if you are driving for long distances.

If you live in an area of the state that sees larger amounts of snow, you may want to consider winter tires or a solid all-season to help prevent loss of vehicle control. And remember, some parts of the state actually require chains or snow tires during times of heavy snow.

Driving in Cold and Wet Weather

When you are driving in the rain or snow, it is important to adjust your driving behavior accordingly. You can help keep yourself and everyone else on the road safer by:

  • Driving slowly
  • Allowing a five to six-second gap between your vehicle and others
  • Breaking only when needed
  • Signaling your intent
  • Avoiding all forms of distraction
  • Staying sober and alert

Paying attention, driving patiently, and remaining courteous can help everyone get to their destination.

Stranded on the Road

Upstate New York is no stranger to significant storms. Being prepared when one of these strands you on the road can help save your life. There are emergency kits you can buy that come with everything you may need when stranded, but you can easily build one of these kits yourself as well.

Items to include in your winter emergency kit:

  • Extra clothes, gloves, and hats
  • Blankets
  • A shovel
  • Flares and reflectors
  • A flashlight
  • Water and snacks
  • Kitty litter or sand

In addition to these things, it’s a good idea to have a first aid kit, rope or chain, and jumper cables in your car year-round.

Injured While Driving?

If you are involved in an accident while driving this winter, attorney Ira Maurer is here to help. Please call our Fishkill office at 845-896-5295 to schedule a free case review and learn more.