Driving in Poor Weather Conditions in Georgia

Georgia is a known for its temperate climate, but the State sees its share of adverse weather conditions as well, especially in the winter months. Heavy rains, ice and fog can all strike with little to no warning. Some Georgia drivers fail to slow down enough to account for poor weather conditions and their careless behavior leads to serious accidents and injuries.

Severe weather impacts drivers by reducing visibility, making the vehicle more difficult to handle, and reducing traction as well as stability and maneuverability. High winds and heavy rain can flood streets and even knock down tree branches or power lines. Moreover freezing temperatures can create dangerous black ice, sending unsuspecting drivers sliding into other vehicles or objects.

Driving in adverse weather in Georgia can include the following conditions, among others:

1. Rain: A high number of car accidents occur when it is raining. Rain reduces tire traction on pavement, limits visibility and can obstruct traffic when heavy rain accumulates on the road. Standing water also increases risks of hydroplaning.
2. High winds: During a torrential storm, high winds are possible. High winds can push a car outside of its lane or break tree limbs and topple trees, causing serious and dangerous obstacles to driving.
3. Snow: Some parts of Georgia might receive snow fall this coming winter. Snow makes for dangerous driving by reducing traction, visibility and causing sliding. Drivers must slow down in the snow and only drive once the roads have been sufficiently cleared.
4. Ice: Ice is one of the most dangerous conditions for drivers to experience and Georgia roads will often experience ice in the winter months. Black ice is normally invisible, leading to unsuspecting drivers careening off the road and into other lanes, vehicles or obstacles. Drivers should always heed black ice warnings and wait to hit the roadways. Anyone who feels they must drive in such conditions should exercise extreme caution by traveling slow and keeping a lookout for icy patches, especially on bridges and other areas prone to freezing first.
5. Fog: Fog is caused by moist air rising and meeting with cold air. It can happen across Georgia and is particularly a problem in hilly regions. Fog primarily creates dangerous driving conditions by severely reducing visibility, making drivers unable to see the road ahead. It can also lead to rear-end accidents when motorists slow down unexpectedly.

It is important that drivers adjust their behavior in order to safely travel in adverse weather conditions. Whether you face rain, winds, snow, ice or fog, it is crucial that you slow down and allow more room between you and other vehicles. Pay close attention to the conditions surrounding you and ensure your vehicle is properly maintained and ready to drive in poor road conditions.

Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law: Put Our Over 39 Years of Experience to Work on Your Case!

If you or your loved one is injured in an automobile accident, the Georgia Car Accident Attorneys at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, are here to help. Our firm has over 39 years of experience in the field of personal injury law and we accept cases across Georgia and in the Southeast. The sooner you act after your automobile accident, the greater your chances of obtaining a full recovery for your injuries. As such, do not delay in seeking legal assistance. Call Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law, 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.