Several arctic blasts have plummeted temperatures across Mississippi to record lows.  These frigid temperatures have lead to icy roads and numerous accidents.  Recently, in Pearl River, Mississippi, an astonishing thirty accidents occurred around I-59 in Pearl River County within one hour.  Tragically, an infant and two adults died due to the wintry conditions along Highway 11 near Picayune.

Earlier in the year, in Northern Mississippi, a storm resulted in extensive loss of power and downed tree limbs.  Over 5,000 homes in Hernando and DeSoto country were without power.  With this winter mix, a slew of accidents occurred.  A six vehicle accident involving multiple injuries took place in DeSoto County at the Coldwater River Bridge.  Meanwhile, in Olive Branch, three separate accidents transpired in a short 45 minute time span on Highway 305 and 78.

The icy road conditions lead DeSoto County and other counties across the state to implement a Inclement Weather Policy, which states that in the event of an accident which does not result in injury, and no drugs or alcohol were suspected, the drivers of the vehicles should exchange information, including names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance data.  The drivers should then arrange a time to meet at the local law enforcement office.  Drivers have ten working days from the day of the crash to file a report.  Inclement weather policies such as this allow officers to focus their attention and resources on those who require medical assistance following a crash.

Forecasters predict Mississippi, along with much of the country, will continue to grapple with harsh winter weather in the coming weeks.  The following is a list of tips to help you stay safe on the roadways when the temperatures plunge:

1. Wait it out – if it is sleeting, snowing, or likely that ice exists on the roads, the best way to avoid a potential accident is simply waiting for conditions to improve.  If staying home is not an option, listen to the news or radio before you leave to determine what roadways are the safest and which might be closed.  Avoid bridges as these are often the first places to freeze.
2. Decrease your speed – when poor road conditions exist, travel below the speed limit to help maintain control of your vehicle.  High speeds and slick roads can cause serious accidents, spiraling even experienced drivers into a fishtail from which they may not be able to recover.
3. Follow a slide – icy roads can cause vehicles to slide.  If you are caught in a slide, turn your wheel in the direction you are sliding.  This is the best way to correct it and regain your traction.
4. Avoid constant braking – when driving on black ice, applying your brakes can actually cause you to slide.  Antilock brakes function poorly on snow or ice and will often lock up your wheels.
5. Exercise caution and maintain vigilance – ice is particularly deadly for drivers because it is not always visible.  Be acutely aware of your surroundings when driving on potentially icy roads.  Further, remember that if you are struggling to drive on an icy road, chances are the other vehicles around you are as well.  Be on the lookout for other vehicles sliding towards you or into your lane and practice defense driving.

The seasoned personal injury attorneys at Barrett Law, PLLC want to see Mississippi drivers stay safe this winter by knowing the steps for managing icy road conditions.  If you or a loved one does get into a car accident, Barrett Law, PLLC can help.  The attorney team at Barrett Law, PLLC will zealously fight for your full recovery.  Call us today at 1 (601) 790-1505 to schedule a free initial consultation.