1. Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
Some best ways to prevent an injury accident collision occur long before the key slips into the ignition. For example,
- Know the road. It is always best to avoid driving in bad weather conditions, especially if you don’t know the road. If you must drive anyway, before hitting the road check out web sites that monitor road conditions in the area where you plan to drive. Review a map of your route. Note bridge overpasses and other places where water may pool or condense such as low laying areas, rivers, marshes, streams and drainages.
- I can see clearly now. Replace wiper blades. Clean car windows thoroughly, inside and out. Consider applying a water-repellent product to the outside of windows and mirrors. Drain older washer fluid. Re-fill washer system with anti-icing fluid.
- Tread on me. Look for a tire with at least 6/32-inch deep tread. (New passenger-car tires usually have 10/32-inch of tread.) Avoid high performance summer tires. Such tires are prone to slipping in snow and ice. Some “all-season” tires have decent snow traction. Others do not. Look for a “snowflake on mountain” symbol on the sidewall.
- Light check. Check &Clear headlights and taillights of all debris including snow and ice.
- Foggy? Cool it. Remove interior windshield condensation by cranking up the air-conditioner with fresh air. Hot or cool air will work.
2. Stop it!!
- ABS is a Snap. If your car is equipped with an antilock brake system (ABS) review your car’s manual regarding its use, before driving. If you slide when driving, stomp the brake as if to snap it. Keep brake pressure until ABS begins pulsing, then ease up. Steer easy around any obstacle.
- Non- ABS: Brake until Wheels RollFor non-ABS equipped vehicles on a mixed-surface road, press the brake hard until the wheels stop rolling, then slowly ease braking to allow wheels to turn again. Repeat sequence rapidly so that maximum grip occurs.
- Invisible “Black ice” Black is very dangerous because it is extremely slippery and nearly invisible. Black ice usually has a slight sheen but can also have a matte finish. Avoid driving on a black ice surface.
- Bum steer. Should your tires lose grip, don’t continue turning the steering wheel against the skid. Instead, slightly correct until tires regain traction.
- AWD helps move, not stop. Remember, antilock brake system (ABS) All- Wheel Drive feature helps a vehicle move ahead. AWD does not help with braking.
If an injurious car accident has already happened on an Oregon roadway, Richard Rizk can help. Contact him at 503.245.5677.
