Plan Ahead for Safer Winter Travel in Kansas

Preparation reduces risk, but negligent drivers still cause accidents.

Car accidents can happen at any time - especially if the roads are icy, flooded, or otherwise difficult due to winter weather. Conditions can change quickly in Kansas. That's why, whether you're going to Wichita, Kansas City, Liberal, or another Kansas community, it's important to be prepared before heading out on a drive.

As a personal injury law firm, the legal team at Warner Law Offices has seen the devastating effects of car accidents on families and individuals. That's why our Wichita car accident lawyers want to share some tips on how to prepare for a safe winter-time drive in Kansas.

Remember: Preparation may help reduce crash risk, but sometimes there is no getting out of the way of a reckless drunk driver or someone texting while driving. If you were injured or a loved one died in a crash due to negligence, contact Warner Law Offices for a free evaluation. We can explain your options and help you decide what to do next.

Plan for a safe drive this winter.

Whether you are a resident of the state or just passing through, these tips will help you avoid a car accident and protect yourself and your passengers. Here are five things a driver can do to ensure a safe drive in Kansas in February:

1. Plan your route. Plan your route in advance and allow extra time for slower driving conditions. Avoid taking shortcuts or less-traveled roads, as these may be less likely to be cleared of snow and ice.
2. Check the weather and road conditions. Before heading out on a trip, check the local weather forecast and road conditions to ensure that roads are clear and safe for driving. Snow, sleet, and ice can make driving conditions hazardous in Kansas in February. The Kansas Department of Transportation's website, Kandrive.org can be a good resource for current road conditions. The KanDrive road condition website includes features such as real-time streaming of camera views along state roadways, a truckers' mode for commercial vehicle operators, traffic speeds, reports, incident alerts, and more. KanDrive has a hands-free app, too.
3. Check vehicle maintenance. Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition, with adequate tire tread depth, good brakes, and functioning headlights, signals, and windshield wipers. Also, check the battery, fluids, and lights to ensure everything is working properly.
4. Leave early. To stay safe, motorists may need to adjust their driving to present conditions. This often involves slowing down, which can make a driver late. Allow extra time for travel in the winter to reduce stress and the temptation to speed.
5. Be prepared for an emergency. In case of an emergency, pack a kit with items such as a first-aid kit, blanket, extra clothing, food and water, and a flashlight with fresh batteries.

Help for injured Kansas crash victims.

It's important to remember that car accidents can still occur even with the best preparation. If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a car accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses. Our experienced Wichita car accident attorneys can help you navigate the claim and legal processes necessary to get results.

Contact us for a free case evaluation. A member of our team will listen to the details of what happened, explain how the law applies to you, and help weigh your legal options. In addition to the free consultation, we represent crash victims on contingency. That means there are no upfront or out-of-pocket expenses for you to pay. Our fee is a percentage of the financial outcome. If we don't win, you don't pay.

You have nothing to lose and potentially much to gain by contacting Warner Law Offices for a free case consultation. A member of our team is available to hear from you anytime, day or night. Contact us to schedule your free evaluation today.