Pennsylvania’s Roads Rank Fifth In Worst Winter Driving

Snow, black ice, freezing rain, high winds, and fallen trees are just some of the natural hazards motorists face as they navigate winter’s deteriorating road conditions. According to recent studies, Pennsylvania ranked fifth among the most dangerous roads for winter driving in the United States. The four states ranked worse were Michigan, Alaska, Wyoming, and Ohio.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to hazardous road conditions, you can trust the Philadelphia, PA car accident lawyers at Solomon, Sherman & Gabay. We can steer your case all the way to the compensation you deserve.

Navigating the Treacherous Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently reported the most dangerous roads to drive during winter conditions. Data compiled from 2017 to 2019 reveal more than 1,300 fatalities and more than 100,000 injured annually on America’s snowy or icy roads.

Over this three-year period, Pennsylvania accounted for 86 fatalities. In 2019, 51 fatal crashes occurred on icy roads or in snow, sleet, slush, or freezing rain. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reported 2020’s fatal crashes increased 7% from 2019’s numbers with 1,129.

PennDOT’s 2018 data shows how big a role poor weather conditions play in the number of accidents on state roads and highways. These statistics include:

• More than 28,000, about 22% of all accidents, occurred on wet roads.
• More than 20,000, about 16% of all accidents, occurred in rainy and foggy conditions.
• More than 9,800, about 8% of all accidents, occurred in snow, freezing rain, and sleet.
• More than 4,400, about 4% of all accidents, occurred on icy roads.
• More than 1,300, about 1% of all accidents, occurred during unspecified weather conditions.

Using Statistics to Inform Your Driving

Understanding poor weather conditions and its impact on driving helps motorists avoid accidents. PennDOT offers tips on driving in dangerous conditions, including:

• Know your car: Keep your car serviced and know how it responds in various conditions.
• Drive slowly: Decrease speed and increase distance between you and the car ahead of you.
• Avoid stopping: Braking is tricking in challenging conditions. Start slowly, and when possible, drift to a stop.
• Stay calm: If you do start to skid, keep calm, and follow these three rules:

1. Do not hit the brakes – ease off the gas instead.
2. Turn into the slide – steer toward the direction the back of the vehicle is sliding.
3. Do not overcorrect – you may spin out of control.

When should I contact a lawyer?

The Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Solomon, Sherman & Gabay want to help you traverse the treacherous process of Pennsylvania law. We can take your case from the beginning to the end of its process which may include:

• Submitting your insurance claim
• Managing interactions with insurance companies
• Advising and referring to medical professionals
• Investigating and gathering evidence
• Assessing your damages
• Preparing for trial if needed
• Making sure your medical bills are paid

No case is too small, so do not get left in the cold, contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling 215-665-1100.