Icy Conditions Result in Iowa Car Accidents

The winter season in Iowa is in full swing following the relative heatwave we experienced well into December this year. Snow and ice makes for treacherous driving, particularly when drivers do not adjust for changing conditions or are simply not used to slippery roads. Although Iowans are well-acquainted with the dangers hazardous weather presents, we still have our share of accidents in the winter driving season, which sometimes result in injury.

The Plains/Midwest region of the U.S. has the highest ice-related car accident fatality rates when compared to other parts of the country. Travel in the region often takes place on rural highways at high speeds with average trips requiring more time on the road, which can translate into a higher number of accidents when conditions deteriorate.

Add to the equation, that icing events in Iowa tend to be intermittent rather than season long, so motorists are caught unprepared. In general, the fewer road icing events a location sees per winter, the greater the rate of fatalities per event results. This rings true not only in Iowa, but parts of the country that rarely experience winter driving.

Whether you live in the Iowa or other parts of the country, getting ready to drive in inclement weather is key but, first, ask yourself if you really need to go out when a storm is brewing or can it wait until roads are cleared.

If you must venture out in slick conditions, make sure your tires and windshield wipers are up to the job. Practice cold-weather driving away from other motorists to get a feel for how to maneuver on icy roads and allow more time to get to your destination. Remember that distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents so smart phones or driving impaired in  winter driving conditions definitely do not mix. Buckle up at all times and have an emergency plan if you get stranded out in the icy tundra.

Contact an Experienced Iowa Car Accident Attorney

Getting to your destination safely takes more thought on the part of all motorists when driving in winter conditions, but sometimes accidents do occur. If you or a family member is injured in an Iowa car accident due to the negligence of another driver, contact the Iowa motor vehicle accident Law Offices of John T. Hemminger for immediate assistance today at 515-283-2116.