Automobile Accidents Increase During Winter Months

September 16th, 2009
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As many know, winter weather can wreak havoc on an automobile, not only because of the harsh environment but because auto accidents are at an all time high during the wintry months. In addition to auto accidents, other outdoor activities such as snowboarding or skiing can also increase the risk of an accidental injury happening. Individuals must know the risks they are taking and how to reduce these risks to prevent personal injury from happening.

It is not too surprising that the leading cause of death during severe winter weather is the result of motor vehicle accidents. However, by learning and adhering to safe winter driving practices, many accidents can be avoided in cold, wet, or snowy conditions.

Be Prepared

Both drivers and their automobiles must be prepared for winter driving.

Safe Winter Driving Tips

Poor visibility and icy and snowy roads require extra caution to ensure winter driving safety. Important winter driving tips to remember and put into practice when driving in winter weather are:

* Wear your seat belt (in all seasons, not just winter)!

* Remove all snow and ice from windows, headlights, roof and hood.

* Turn on your headlights – to see and be seen.

* Slow down! Drive at a speed that is safe for the conditions. While a speed limit is posted, it is wise to use common sense and decrease speeds to below the speed limit in dangerous weather.

* Beware of bridges and overpasses. They can get icy while the road is not at all icy.

* Be aware of what “black ice” is and how to recognize it. Black ice is a thin layer of ice that is almost invisible and can be mistaken for dry pavement (usually forms when snow has melted and re-freezes). It can cause extremely serious car crashes.

* Take care when accelerating so you do not lose control, even if you have a four-wheel drive vehicle.

* Leave plenty of room for stopping. This can be especially critical for four-wheel drive vehicles which can get up more speed, but cannot stop any faster than other vehicles. In fact, given that many of these vehicles are heavier, they may take longer to stop.

* Do not pump anti-lock brakes. Instead, “stomp and steer. “

* Do not use cruise control in winter weather.

* Stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow.

* Be alert. Avoid alcohol and medications that cause drowsiness. Do not drive if tired, since winter driving can cause mental and physical fatigue, which reduces reaction time.

* Avoid distractions, such as talking on cell phones.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Winterize your car by checking at least the fluid levels, wiper blades, tire tread and pressure, oil (level and proper grade), battery, lights, and antifreeze

Other Winter Traveling Tips

When traveling in winter weather, fill your gasoline tank and do not let it run low. Keep several other items on hand in case you become stranded such as a blanket, warm clothes, flashlight with extra batteries, flare, cell phone or citizens band (CB) radio, small shovel, sand or cat litter (for traction), and jumper cables.

After the Storm – Enjoying the Snow Snowmobile Safety

Snowmobile accidents account for a large number of serious winter sports accidents. Most serious snowmobile injuries are to males under the age of 20, and most snowmobile accidents can be prevented. The state of Wisconsin reports that alcohol is a contributing factor to most snowmobile accident deaths.

It is important to keep in mind safety while snowmobiling including avoiding use of drugs and alcohol, avoiding areas not marked on trails, or large bodies of water that appear frozen but may not be, also use a safe speed.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The most common injuries for people in snowboarding or skiing accidents are head injuries, which are also the most common cause of death in skiers and snowboarders aged seven to 17.

Safety tips for skiing and snowboarding include:

* Wearing a helmet.

* Viewing the route ahead to avoid obstacles and collisions with others.

* It is wise to ski in areas with less traffic, as to avoid accidental collisions and injury.

* Being in good physical condition.

If you have been involved in a snowmobile crash or other winter accident, contact an experienced snowboard attorney to find out more about your legal rights. You may be able to file a snowmobile crash lawsuit and obtain monetary compensation for damages sustained during a snowmobile crash or other winter accident.

Do Athletes In A Winter Sports Sweat During The Games?

September 16th, 2009
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It’s too cold in the activity area right? Curiosity drives me to wonder. . do athletes in a winter sport sweat during and after each games? Pardon me in my curiosity for my country does not experience winter season. .

What Are Winter Garments To Be Taken When Travelling To Usa During Winter ?

September 16th, 2009

We are senior citizens from south India planning a trip to USA, during January. Not accustomed to such weather conditions, we would like to know what would be the winter garments, we may have to take, such as woolen overcoat, gloves etc, for our trip.

What Is Your Favorite Sport To Watch During The Winter Olympics?

August 27th, 2009

I’m writing an article and i’m just wondering what your favorite sport to watch is during the winter olympics.

Where Can You Stay During the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics?

August 5th, 2009

The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics are going to be here in no time, so it is not too soon to start thinking about where to stay while in Vancouver. If you’re one of those individuals fortunate enough to acquire tickets, it is time to start thinking about your accommodations. Your goal is to stay as close as possible to the venues that will be hosting the events that you’re attending. Then again, you may wish to stay elsewhere because there are other attractions in Vancouver that you want to enjoy. Whatever your reasons for wanting to stay in a specific area in Vancouver, you have to be aware of the accommodations that are available to you. First of all, you have to know that the exact area in which the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics is being held is the village of Whistler. It is the commercial center, which means it is going to have your largest concentration of restaurants and shops. Other attractions Whistler is also known for its skiing. Some say the lodging in this area is unattractive if you’re staying in the village because you will still find yourself quite a distance away from the ski lifts. You’re looking at a walk of around 10 minutes to the skiers plaza. Basically, this is definitely not a village for those looking for peace and quiet, especially with the Olympics going on. Nevertheless, there are accommodations in the Upper Village that allows easy access to the ski lifts and also offers up spectacular views. You’ll also find legendary night clubs. Really, you need to look at all of the attractions and determine what it is that is important to you. If you intent on hitting the night clubs every night, but you’re only going to be attending a couple of Olympic events, you may want to ensure you stay near the clubs. This is especially true if alcohol is going to be involved. You may want to be able to take a short cab ride back to your hotel or be within walking distance. Where to stay As for your exact lodging options while attending the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics, there is a wide range of lodging options available in Whistler. You can visit a condo or a chalet if you don’t want to stay in a hotel. These are great for the luxury traveler or those traveling in groups. You also have to take into consideration the length of your stay. Longer stays usually require a higher degree of comfort. However, when it comes to hotels, you have many options available. This is a tourist town and it is going to be a hotspot when the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics roll around. You have your choice of 1 to 5 star hotels. Most will give you mountain views that are breathtaking. An example of a 5 star hotel that you may want to consider is the Fairmont Chateau. It is right in the heart of Whistler. Just make sure that you check out the accommodations close to where you want to be in or outside of the village. Just keep in mind that you’re going to get anything but peace and quiet during this time. This means you might as well live it up while you are there. There is going to be a lot of excitement in the air. You’re going to experience excitement like you’ve never known. In all reality, the entire experience is not going to be like any you have ever had in your life. Actually, it’s going to be much better.