The Philadelphia winter is beautiful. From enjoying the monuments during the holiday season to the picturesque scenes of the city itself, the historic streets are covered in soft snow and make for the perfect winter. However, icy roads from the cold weather can turn those streets into dangerous hazards for drivers. Philadelphia injury lawyers from Rosenbaum Injury Law state that “as temperatures drop, staying safe on the road is the main priority.”
This guide will help you avoid car accidents on icy roads in Philadelphia.
1. Stay Informed About Road Conditions
Philadelphia’s weather can quickly change. Staying updated is key to safe driving.
• Check weather and road reports: Use apps like PennDOT’s 511PA or local news outlets like KYW Newsradio to get real-time updates on closures and icy conditions.
• Avoid driving during active storms: If news and report outlets predict a snow or ice storm, consider delaying your trip until the roads do not pose any of those icy risks.
2. Use Defensive Driving
Icy roads in Philadelphia require defensive driving to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Avoid braking abruptly: Pump your brakes lightly or use your car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) for controlled stopping. Sudden braking can cause skidding.
• Increase your following distance: Leave at least 5-10 seconds of distance between your car and the vehicle ahead.
• Slow down: To maintain control, reduce your speed on icy roads.
• Steer smoothly: Sharp, quick turns can make you lose control of your vehicle. Not maintaining control happens especially on narrow streets like those in South Philadelphia.
3. Prepare Your Car for Winter Conditions
Before driving, make sure your vehicle is ready to handle Philadelphia’s winter weather.
• Use snow tires: Snow tires give better traction on ice-covered streets, especially on streets like Market Street or Roosevelt Boulevard, and any other icy streets that can be affected.
• Check your fluid and wipers: Make sure your wipers are in good condition. For the best visibility, use windshield washer fluid with a winter-grade solution.
• Battery Maintenance: Cold temperatures can drain your car battery quickly. Having it tested will be a safe option to avoid being stranded in cold weather.
• Check for accident history: Review your car’s accident history and ensure that any previous damage, particularly to key safety features like brakes or suspension, has been properly repaired. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down or contribute to an accident in icy, winter conditions. If you need more clarification about the condition of your car, consider taking it to a trusted mechanic for a pre-winter inspection to address any potential problems before they become serious issues.
4. Plan for Parking
Trying to find parking in Philadelphia is challenging already, but icy conditions can make it more difficult.
• Pick well-maintained areas: Well-maintained streets are more likely to be cleared or salted.
• Avoid parking on inclines: Your car could slide down the inclined road. For example, especially in neighborhoods like Germantown and Fairmount.
5. Take Advantage of Salted and Treated Road Treatments
Philadelphia’s Streets Department prioritizes salts and plows main streets and roads first.
• Avoid untreated side roads and streets: These are often the last to be salted and can remain icy for days.
• Use primary roads: Streets like Broad Street and Chestnut Street are prioritized for treatment, making them safer options during icy conditions.
6. Know What to Do If You Start Skidding
Skidding, especially on an icy road is a scary and overwhelming experience. To know what to do during a skid, follow these three tips:
• Try to avoid braking: Take your foot off the accelerator and allow your car to slow naturally. Ease your foot off the accelerator, as braking can worsen the skid.
• Turn into the skid: If your car starts sliding, gently turn the wheel in the direction you want to go.
• Stay calm: Panicking and not staying calm can make the situation worse. It can make you react negatively and increase the likelihood of a car accident.
7. Drive Careful in High-Risk Areas
Philadelphia has several high-traffic zones and tricky areas during winter weather.
• Black ice: Black ice often forms in shaded areas or near the Schuylkill River, especially late at night or early in the morning. Drive slowly.
• Avoid steep hills if possible: Streets in Manayunk, for example, are notoriously steep and are more than likely to be hazardous when icy. Plan routes that limit the risk.
• Be cautious on bridges: The Ben Franklin Bridge and other overpasses usually freeze faster than regular roads due to elevation. Maintain a safe following distance.
Drive Safely on the Philadelphia Icy Streets
Driving on the icy Philadelphia streets during the winter time can be overwhelming, challenging, anxiety-filled, and disastrous. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions, check your vehicle for maintenance, practice defensive driving, carefully plan your routes, and stay away from high-risk areas.
With being aware and informed of the tips, you can be more safe when driving on Philadelphia’s streets if they happen to be icy. This ensures your driving confidence and safety for you and other drivers.
