car accident

As anyone who lived in Atlanta during the winter of 2014 can attest, winter storms pose unique challenges to metro areas in the Southern US, including Metro Atlanta. Without fast-acting salt trucks and other winter infrastructure, it’s often left to individuals to plan for safety. This weekend, the National Weather Service has issued a watch for winter weather in the greater Atlanta area as far south as Newnan/ Coweta County, from Saturday afternoon through Monday morning. Experts say to expect potential ice accumulation up to 4/10 of an inch, with “power outages and tree damage likely due to the ice.” The weather service advises drivers to only travel if necessary, and to drive with great caution.

We advise drivers to prepare now if they think travel will be necessary during the watch period. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated can mean the difference between safe travel and an accident on icy roads. It is also important to fill your vehicle with gas; in cases where traffic becomes congested due to severe weather, you want enough gas to get safely home. The National Weather Service also advises packing a winter weather kit for your vehicle, with items such as booster cables, a flashlight, batteries for your flashlight, blankets, and extra clothing. In severe cases where vehicles are stranded, having these supplies is crucial.

Even if you don’t plan to drive during the weekend, consider safety when walking on icy sidewalks and outdoor steps. Here in Georgia we rarely consider this, but the wrong step on an icy cement can result in serious injury. Use the following tips to make your area safer for yourself and others: