Winter Weather Car Accidents in Montgomery County, and Why December and January Are High-Risk Months

For the most part, Christmas and the holiday season mark the beginning of a festive, joyful time. We celebrate, travel, and enjoy time with one another. It is a wonderful time of the year.

The good feelings and spirit of Christmas also come with a certain degree of risk as we go see relatives or pick out a Christmas tree. December and January are two of the top months for car accidents in and around Montgomery County.

The key to protecting yourself from harm on the roads this winter is to understand these risks and how to minimize them. Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., is an experienced Montgomery County car accident attorney. If you need help after being injured in a holiday car accident, contact our office today for a free consultation.

Watch Out for More Than Santa Claus This Winter

Holidays on the roads of Montgomery County mean travelling despite the difficulties associated with ice, snow, and poor visibility. Add to those challenges the reality of congested roads and drivers in a hurry, and there is ample opportunity for a car accident to occur.

When snow and icy conditions are present, roadways are slick. The tires of even well-prepared vehicles do not stop as quickly once the brakes are applied. Even a few feet of reduced braking ability can make for a dangerous situation. Multi-car accidents and highway pileups are a testament to this winter driving reality.

Intoxicated Drivers and Other Hazards of December and January

One of the hallmarks of the holidays is attending festive parties. Getting together with friends and family to celebrate the season often means having an adult beverage or two. Alcohol and driving are a dangerous combination. Having too much to drink can mean a car accident is likely to occur.

Distracted driving is another byproduct of December and January travels. Preparing for Christmas parties, looking forward to buying gifts for the kids, and a host of other activities can distract a motorist from focusing on the road. With so much going on in the immediate vicinity of holiday drivers, there is no shortage of distractions for a driver to contend with.

Busy roads and tired drivers are another risk associated with holiday driving. Whether it is the long lines of vehicles on Montgomery County roads or drowsy drivers going from place to place, the streets in December and January are busier than usual. An effect of this is that car accidents occur with far greater regularity during these months.

How Can You Help Increase Your Likelihood of Staying Safe Driving This Winter?

This is not to say that every driver will be in an accident during December and January; the risks simply increase. However, there are a few things that a driver can do to help prevent an accident.

Your vehicle is your first line of defense. Snow tires are recommended for traveling around Montgomery County during December and January. Talk to your local tire retailer about what tires are most suitable for your vehicle and your particular driving needs. Adequate tires can help you avoid slipping, sliding, and losing traction.

Fatigue can impact any driver, especially during the holidays. Eating heavier meals, drinking more alcohol, and sleeping less means it is probable that getting behind the wheel means not being at your best. Acknowledge this by getting as much sleep as possible the night before long drives. If it is too late to sleep more the night before a drive, pull over and sleep at a rest stop or other appropriate location.

What Does a Skilled Montgomery County Car Accident Attorney Do To Help Injured Drivers?

Suffering an injury in a car accident in the winter months means dealing with added stress during what is supposed to be a joyful time of the year. When an accident happens, you have some options to consider. Namely, are you willing to look for help in handling your injury case?

An attorney can help you by not only filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company but also by ensuring the insurance company accepts fault sooner rather than later. A major delay occurs if an insurance company drags its feet on this initial question.

Once liability is accepted, an attorney can move on to help you determine the compensation that is owed to you based on the damages you have suffered. This may include lost wages and medical bills. Attorneys do not make decisions for their clients. Rather, attorneys provide information and advise clients to help them make the best possible decision for themselves.

When Injured in a Holiday Car Accident, Do Not Delay in Seeking Help

The tendency during a busy time like December and January is to set aside issues and to look at them later. This is not something you should do when it comes to your injuries. Getting hurt in a car accident is a serious matter that demands your attention now.

The problem is that your attention is being pulled in so many different directions in the winter months. Focusing on any one topic can seem overly difficult, even if we are talking about your health.

When you understand that there is help for you after a winter car accident, suddenly, the whole process can seem less daunting. The sooner you prepare your case and initiate a claim with the at-fault insurance company, the sooner you can have your medical bills and other damages resolved.

Contact Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C. When a Holiday Car Accident Hits Close to Home

Don’t allow a December or January car accident to dominate your life during an otherwise happy time of the year. Anthony C. Gagliano, III, Esquire, P.C., fights insurance companies on behalf of his clients. Push back with our team of legal professionals when an insurance company tries to bully you. Contact us today for a free consultation.