Strong Winds Can Pose Roadway Hazards Like Other Weather

On Behalf of | Feb 28, 2019 | Car Accidents

Driving in Colorado can often pose a number of risks, especially during winter weather. Though you may consider yourself a good driver, sudden elements may make driving more difficult at any time. Unfortunately, other drivers may not have the ability to drive as well in inclement weather.

Of course, inclement weather does not just mean substantial snow storms. In fact, heavy winds can also pose serious threats to people traveling the roadways. Strong wind and sudden gusts could easily cause unsuspecting drivers to lose control as this element fights against them.

Staying safe in heavy winds

Wind can often cause more damage than people give it credit. When it comes to the effects on your driving, wind can push your vehicle or cause other problems. If you are on the road during heavy winds, you may want to remember the following safety tips:

  • Watch out for large vehicles: The wind will likely affect vehicles with a higher center of gravity, like tractor-trailers or campers, more than vehicles closer to the ground. As a result, you may want to watch out for large vehicles because drivers may have a difficult time keeping those vehicles in the correct lane.
  • Keep both hands firmly on the wheel: Having both hands on the wheel can always help keep your vehicle under control, and during strong winds, a firm grip with both hands may help prevent the wind from moving your vehicle in an undesired direction.
  • Know that gusts are likely: Sudden gusts of wind can easily catch drivers off guard, and before you know it, your vehicle or another vehicle may swerve out of its lane and cause a crash.

Though Colorado is a mountainous area, it does not mean that strong winds cannot affect Aspen and other locations. In fact, road cuts could potentially funnel wind and cause serious hazards.

Accidents happen

Unfortunately, even if you do your best to drive safely in strong winds, another driver may not take needed precautions and could cause a crash that results in you suffering serious injuries. If this happens, you may want to remember that you have legal options for seeking compensation for damages resulting from such crashes, including for your medical expenses. Consulting with a personal injury attorney about your options may help you determine your best courses of action.

Attorney Chadwick P. McGrady at his desk