As fall transitions into winter in the Pacific Northwest, our beautiful scenery can quickly create dangerous conditions on our roads and sidewalks. Shorter days, heavy rain, falling leaves, frost, and ice all contribute to an increased risk of collisions involving both vehicles and pedestrians. At Althauser Rayan Abbarno, we regularly help clients injured during these colder months—and we want our community to stay safe.
Seasonal Hazards That Increase Crash Risks
As temperatures drop and the weather worsens, drivers and pedestrians should stay alert for the following:
1. Wet and Slick Roads
Rain-slick pavement significantly reduces tire traction and increases stopping distances. Even light rain after a dry spell can make roads especially slippery.
2. Piles of Leaves
Colorful autumn leaves may look beautiful, but they become hazardous when wet. Leaves hide potholes, reduce traction, and can cause both cars and pedestrians to slip.
3. Ice and Black Ice
Morning frost and overnight freezes create invisible hazards. Black ice is particularly dangerous because drivers often don’t see it until it’s too late.
4. Longer Nights and Reduced Visibility
More hours of darkness, fog, and wet windshields make it harder to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
5. Distracted or Rushed Driving
Holiday travel, busy school schedules, and congestion can lead to distracted or impatient driving—dangerous in any weather, but especially in fall and winter.
Safety Tips for Drivers
- Slow down. Reduced speeds give you more control and more time to react.
- Increase following distance. Wet or icy roads require longer stopping distances.
- Check your tires. Proper tread and inflation make a big difference on slick roads.
- Use headlights appropriately. Help others see you, even in daylight rain or fog.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Smooth, controlled movements reduce skidding.
- Stay alert for pedestrians. Crosswalks, school zones, and downtown areas are high-risk.
Safety Tips for Pedestrians
- Wear bright or reflective clothing. Early sunsets make pedestrians hard to see.
- Use sidewalks and crosswalks. Stay in well-lit, designated paths whenever possible.
- Avoid walking on leaf piles. They can be hiding slippery surfaces.
- Make eye contact with drivers. Don’t assume a driver sees you.
- Be cautious on frosty mornings. Sidewalks and curbs can be icy even when streets look clear.
What Should You Do If You Are in a Collision?
Even when you’re careful, accidents happen. If you’re involved in a motor vehicle or pedestrian collision:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Move to safety if possible, especially in heavy rain or low visibility.
- Document the scene. Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, injuries, and surroundings.
- Exchange information with all parties involved.
- Avoid admitting fault. Weather conditions can be a major factor, and fault is determined later.
- Seek medical evaluation, even if you feel fine. Some injuries take hours or days to appear.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance companies.
Let Althauser Rayan Abbarno Help You Weather the Storm
At Althauser Rayan Abbarno, our experienced personal injury attorneys have been representing injured clients throughout Washington for more than 75 years. We understand the challenges that come with fall and winter collisions, and we’re here to help you recover—physically, financially, and emotionally.
- Free Injury Consultations
- Spanish Translation Available
- Offices in Centralia
If you or a loved one has been injured, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact Althauser Rayan Abbarno today and let our team help you weather the storm while you heal.
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