Snowstorms can be pretty when seen from a window, as can be a landscape recently covered with the fluffy glimmer of snow. Being stuck in a snowstorm tends to dull that same luster, and worse yet if you get inside your car during a snowstorm. Read on to learn more about how you can prepare for and prevent the worst should you ever face a snowstorm while locked in your car. After any automobile incident, you may have a right to compensation, so call a Rockland County auto accident lawyer as soon as you can.
Avoid Getting Trapped in Your Car During a Snow Event
Obvious though saying so may be, it is worth emphasizing: please stay at home during a snow event. If the situation allows you to postpone going out at all, you should prioritize your health and safety.
How to Stay Safe While Driving in a Snowstorm
Sometimes, however, our lives don’t give us the opportunity to stay home. Emergencies pop up when we least expect them. In such a scenario, you should take the following precautions.
Tell Someone Where You Are Going
If the worst comes to worst, it may be necessary to start a search for you. Tell a trusted person where you are going and what route you will be taking.
Bring Your Emergency Kit
If you have to leave your home during a snow event, be sure to charge your phone and bring it with you. Bring a car charger as well. And you should always have an emergency kit on standby regardless of the season. Among other things, your emergency kit should have water, food, a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Clean Your Vehicle
Before getting in your vehicle, take a moment to clear away any ice or snow on it. When ice or snow falls off a moving vehicle, it becomes a road hazard for the community.
Drive Slowly
You may not be able to tell the condition of the road on sight. It may be wet or even slick without appearing so, especially if you are driving at night. Drive slowly to avoid an accident and give yourself more time to react.
What if I Get Stranded in My Car During a Snowstorm?
Your first course of action should be to stay in your vehicle. The snow and cold can easily disorient and confuse anyone. To strike a balance between conserving your resources and staying warm, run the motor for about 10 minutes per hour. Be sure to open the window when you do, and clean your tailpipe. Doing so will help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
When you run the engine, you should also turn on the dome light and emergency flashers. You need to be as visible as possible, in case there are rescuers nearby. If and when the snow stops falling, raise the hood to signal to others that you need help.
