Posted in Car Accident,Personal Injury,Tennessee Accident Law on February 2, 2016
Clarksville Drivers Warned as City Is in Path of Strong Winds, Possible Tornadoes
Unseasonably warm temperatures in Middle Tennessee that reached the low 70s this week will give way as a cold front moves through the area that will also bring severe storms Tuesday evening.
According to a report by Clarksville Now, several counties in the northern part of Middle Tennessee are under a tornado watch until 7 p.m., including Montgomery County, Houston County, and Stewart County.
Strong wind gusts are also expected as the storm moves into the Clarksville area, with a wind advisory in effect for the region. Straight line wind gusts could reach speeds at over 35 miles per hour, posing a serious threat for drivers in the city and throughout Montgomery County.
Roads also may become dangerous or impassable due to downed limbs, trees, and power lines. The wind advisory for Clarksville is in effect until midnight, which means driving conditions could remain dangerous until well after sunset.
How to Drive Safely in Strong Winds
Severe weather that affects driving safety can come in many different forms. Almost everyone knows about the dangers of slick roads caused by the accumulation of rain, ice, and snow. Fog can also significantly increase the risk of accidents due to reduced visibility. But many drivers are unaware of the risks posted by strong winds—especially winds that are powerful enough to move their vehicles or the vehicles of other drivers while in motion.
To stay safe while driving during strong winds, do your best to follow these tips from our Clarksville auto accident attorneys:
Top-heavy vehicles or lightweight compact cars can easily be blown off course by strong gusts of wind. If you’re unprepared for it, it’s easy to lose control of your vehicle or overcorrect, putting you at significant risk of being involved in a car accident. If you notice strong winds while driving, grip the wheel firmly and be prepared for your vehicle to be affected.
Top-heavy vehicles such as commercial trucks and large SUVs can be more prone to the adverse effects of wind than other vehicles. To reduce your risk of being struck by one of these vehicles, change lanes or put extra distance between them and your own car. It’s especially important to be cautious near vehicles that are hauling trailers, other vehicles, or recreational vehicles, as the items they are hauling may swing in the roadway due to sudden wind gusts.
As with driving during torrential rainfall or heavy snowstorms, there can be a point where driving during high wind events can become exceptionally dangerous. If you’re having difficult controlling your vehicle—or if you notice other vehicles are being affected by the wind—you should pull over in a safe location as soon as possible. Avoid trees, power lines, telephone poles, street lights, and other objects that could potentially fall over as a result of the high winds.
As with all severe weather, driving during periods of strong wind gusts demands full concentration, focus, and caution. That means never driving while distracted, impaired, or sleepy, and always keeping your full attention on the roadway ahead. When it comes to severe storms that can produce strong winds, it’s also important to pay attention to weather forecasts and avoid driving when conditions become dangerous—especially if tornadoes are possible for your area.
At Matt Hardin Law, our legal team know that while severe weather plays a role in many accidents in Middle Tennessee, most accidents can be avoided when drivers exercise proper caution and care while behind the wheel. If you or someone you love was injured in an accident that was caused by a negligent driver, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related costs.
To find out how our legal team can put its two decades of experience to work for your family, dial (931) 274-7788 or complete our free online consultation form.
