Essential Winter Driving and Walking Safety: What Everyone Should Know

Why Winter Conditions Increase Risks for Everyone

Winter weather can turn even familiar roads into unpredictable hazards. Snow, ice, and longer periods of darkness all contribute to a higher chance of crashes and injuries. Whether you’re behind the wheel or traveling on foot, understanding how winter impacts safety—and what you can do to protect yourself—can make a major difference when conditions take a turn.

How Winter Weather Makes Roads More Dangerous

Data from the Federal Highway Administration shows that a significant portion of weather-related crashes occur in winter conditions. Roughly a quarter of these accidents happen on icy, snowy, or slushy surfaces, and an additional 15% take place during active snowfall. These environments reduce grip, limit visibility, and make steering and braking far more difficult. When roads are slick, even minor mistakes can quickly escalate.

One of the most deceptive winter hazards is black ice. This thin, nearly invisible coating often appears overnight or early in the morning and gives drivers little warning before traction disappears. It only takes a few seconds for a vehicle traveling at normal speed to lose control on black ice. Each year, icy pavement is responsible for well over 150,000 crashes and results in hundreds of fatalities nationwide.

Shorter daylight hours add another layer of danger. By late afternoon or early evening, it's often dark, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians—especially those dressed in dark winter clothing or walking along snow-covered paths. With nearly 80% of pedestrian deaths occurring after sunset, the winter season amplifies visibility challenges for both drivers and walkers.

Common Driving Errors That Increase Winter Risk

Although winter weather can’t be controlled, many accidents are caused by preventable driving behaviors. A frequent issue is failing to remove snow and ice from the entire vehicle. Snow that remains on a car’s roof can slide onto the windshield or blow into traffic, reducing visibility and creating hazards for other drivers. Some states, such as New Jersey and Pennsylvania, even have laws requiring drivers to fully clear snow from their vehicles.

Other risky habits include driving too quickly for road conditions, following too closely, and neglecting to use headlights when snow or low light makes visibility poor. Sharp turns and sudden braking also increase the risk of skidding, especially on roads that haven’t been treated. These mistakes can easily lead to multi-vehicle incidents in severe weather.

Additional Challenges on Rural Roads and for Commercial Drivers

Winter driving isn’t equally dangerous everywhere—rural areas often face added difficulties. Many rural roads are plowed or treated less frequently, and bridges or overpasses tend to freeze well before other surfaces. Dim lighting, limited signage, and long distances between intersections can make it harder to spot black ice, stalled cars, or pedestrians. Emergency response may also take longer in remote locations, which can worsen injuries.

Commercial truck drivers encounter even greater risks in winter weather. Large trucks need significantly more distance to stop, and icy roads can make it impossible to brake safely in time. Jackknife accidents, where a truck’s trailer swings sideways across lanes, can occur quickly and cause massive pileups. Federal data indicates that more than 1,800 deaths occur per year in crashes involving snowy or icy road conditions—many of them tied to large commercial vehicles.

The devastating 2021 pileup in Fort Worth—a 130-vehicle crash caused by icy conditions that resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries—serves as a harsh reminder of how dangerous winter travel can be.

Distraction and Low Visibility: A Dangerous Combination

Winter weather already makes roads riskier, but distraction can compound the danger for both drivers and pedestrians. Motorists are often adjusting heaters, clearing fogged windows, or managing navigation tools, while pedestrians may be navigating icy sidewalks, carrying items, or focusing on maintaining their balance.

These small moments of inattention can lead to severe consequences. Young children walking to school in the dark morning hours are especially vulnerable, as they can be difficult to see without reflective clothing. Older pedestrians may also struggle with icy surfaces and slower reaction times, increasing their exposure to vehicles.

Ways Drivers Can Increase Their Safety

While winter travel always comes with risks, adopting safer habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident. Before starting a trip, drivers should thoroughly clear snow and ice from all parts of the vehicle, including windows, mirrors, headlights, and the roof. This ensures maximum visibility and prevents snow from blowing into traffic.

Slowing down and increasing the following distance gives drivers more time to react if something unexpected occurs. Smooth, gentle braking helps avoid skids, especially on untreated or icy roads. Carrying an emergency kit—complete with items like blankets, a scraper, a flashlight, and even sand or kitty litter to help with traction—can be invaluable if you become stranded.

How Pedestrians Can Stay Safer in Winter

Pedestrian safety is just as important during winter months. Wearing bright or reflective clothing makes it easier for drivers to spot people walking along streets or crossing intersections. Using designated crosswalks and avoiding walking in the roadway—even when snow obstructs sidewalks—reduces the risk of a vehicle collision.

Minimizing distractions, especially when crossing the street, is also key. Looking up from a phone or removing headphones can make the difference between safely crossing and stepping into a driver’s blind spot.

The Importance of Legal Support After a Winter Accident

Even when taking every precaution, winter accidents can still occur—and when they do, the aftermath is often complicated. Injury claims involving snowy or icy conditions may involve multiple parties, unclear liability, or disputes with insurance companies.

If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a winter-related crash, whether as a driver or a pedestrian, speaking with a personal injury attorney can be critical. A lawyer can help evaluate your claim, handle negotiations, and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.

Don’t delay in getting help. Reach out to our firm to better understand your rights and explore your legal options after a winter accident.