BLOG

4 Dangers of Winter Driving That Make Roadways Hazardous 

Robert Stahle • December 12, 2018
owi charges - Sioux City, IA - Criminal Defense Attorneys

As the days become shorter, it’s that time once again to brace ourselves for the cold months ahead. Winters here can be brutal, but it isn’t just the extra time it takes to put on boots and a scarf that leaves many people dreading winter each year. Wintery conditions can make driving more challenging, and this is addition to the fact that winter sees some of the highest traffic levels of the entire year.

As you’re heading out this winter, whether it’s to go to work or halfway across the country to visit family, we ask you to please keep safety in mind. Even a clear day in winter can create dangerous driving conditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind for safe travels during the upcoming winter driving season.

Travel Takes Longer in the Winter

If you’re running late for work during any other time of year, it’s easy to pour your coffee into a travel mug and go – something that’s impossible during the winter. Of course, there’s extra time in preparing to walk out the door and smart drivers always account for delays for snow covered roads. Still, many drivers don’t factor in enough time to prepare their car to leave the driveway.

Snow and ice covered cars need to be cleared off completely before taking to the road. Improperly cleared windows reduce your visibility and increase your risk of being involved in an automobile accident. Snow that’s left on top of vehicles can blow off your car and temporarily blind the driver behind you, creating a very hazardous situation. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to clear off your vehicle for safe travels.

Hidden Danger of Black Ice

Black ice is used to describe a dangerous condition where condensation has built up on the roads and then freezes as the temperatures drop. Because the layer of ice is so thin, unsuspecting drivers don’t realize it’s anything more than a wet road, even thought it’s just as dangerous as ice you can easily see. Black ice often occurs when weather conditions are otherwise favorable, catching many drivers off guard.

The best defense against black ice is to drive defensively and always approach the roadways with the same caution you would when they are visibly slick.

Pressure Drops

Colder temperatures will cause the air pressure in your tires to drop, and tires that aren’t properly inflated can impact your ability to maintain control in dangerous driving conditions. Underinflation is also one of the leading causes of a tire blowout. While a blowout can be dangerous during normal driving conditions, especially on a busy roadway, it can become an even bigger hazard as other drivers require more time to stop and react on slippery roads.

Inexperienced and Overconfident Drivers


Two of the biggest threats to safety during winter travel are inexperienced and overconfident drivers. Those who aren’t comfortable with winter driving conditions can overreact and lose control of their vehicle. Meanwhile drivers who are overconfident can risk their safety as well as that of everyone they share the road with by driving too fast or taking other risks.


File a Personal Injury Claim

Now is the time to start thinking about staying safe on the winter roads. If you do find yourself in accident, whether you are at fault or the victim, don’t hesitate to contact a car accident attorney that can help protect your rights. If you need us, we’re here. Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Office today.

How Drunk Driving Accident Victims Can Maximize Compensation With Legal Help

By Robert Stahle • June 11, 2025
When you’re injured by a drunk driver, the physical trauma is often only the beginning. Medical appointments, hospital stays, and prescription medications can last for weeks, months, or even years. You may be unable to work. You may lose your vehicle. And the emotional toll—fear, anxiety, depression—can weigh heavily on you and your family. Unfortunately, many accident victims never receive the compensation they truly need to recover. Insurance companies are skilled at downplaying injuries, undervaluing claims, and pushing quick settlements. These early offers often only cover short-term costs—and leave victims with nothing for long-term consequences. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a personal injury attorney who understands how to fight for your full and fair compensation. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we’ve helped countless clients throughout Iowa and Nebraska recover the financial support they deserve after being hit by drunk drivers. Here’s how having legal representation can make a difference: 1. Understanding the Full Value of Your Claim A serious injury isn’t just about your ER bill. A strong legal claim must account for: Follow-up medical care, physical therapy, and surgeries Future medical treatment or long-term care Mental health services for trauma, PTSD, or anxiety Lost wages and reduced ability to earn income Property damage and vehicle replacement Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life Without legal help, you may never even know you’re entitled to compensation for these elements—let alone how to calculate their true cost. Our attorneys work closely with doctors, financial experts, and accident specialists to build a comprehensive case that reflects the full scope of your losses. 2. Pursuing Punitive Damages In Iowa and Nebraska, courts may award punitive damages in drunk driving cases. Unlike compensatory damages (which are designed to cover your losses), punitive damages are intended to punish the offender for particularly reckless or egregious behavior and deter others from doing the same. These damages can significantly increase the value of your claim—but you need an experienced attorney to prove that the driver’s actions warrant them. We know how to present evidence of impairment, prior offenses, and other aggravating factors that strengthen your case. 3. Exploring Additional Sources of Compensation Sometimes, the drunk driver’s insurance policy won’t cover the full cost of your damages. In those cases, we explore: Your own underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage Dram shop liability (if a bar, restaurant, or event overserved the driver) Third-party liability (in rare cases, the driver’s employer or vehicle owner may also share responsibility)  Our team works to leave no stone unturned when identifying all potential sources of recovery. 4. Standing Up to the Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. Their job is to pay out as little as possible. Without a lawyer, they may take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge or pressure you into a fast settlement. With Fitch & Stahle in your corner, you don’t have to deal with their tactics. We handle all communication, submit all documentation, and push aggressively for the settlement you deserve. And if the insurance company won’t cooperate? We’re ready to take your case to court. If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver in Iowa or Nebraska, don’t let the insurance company decide what your recovery is worth. Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Firm today for a free case evaluation. Let us help you move forward—with the compensation and justice you deserve.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Drunk Driving Accident in Iowa or Nebraska

By Robert Stahle • June 6, 2025
Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes—and the most preventable. Every time someone chooses to drive under the influence of alcohol, they not only break the law, but they also endanger innocent lives. When you’re the victim of one of these reckless acts, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be overwhelming. Many accident victims assume that if the other driver was arrested for DUI, the case will resolve itself quickly and fairly. After all, if the police have proof that the driver was drunk, what else is there to fight about? The reality is far more complex. Even when intoxication is clear, recovering compensation is rarely straightforward. Insurance companies are primarily concerned with protecting their bottom line. They may admit the drunk driver was at fault but still dispute the amount of damages you’re owed. They may claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you say or argue that you had pre-existing conditions. In some cases, they may even try to shift partial blame to you. That’s why hiring an experienced drunk driving accident attorney is so critical. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we represent clients throughout Iowa and Nebraska who have been harmed by drunk drivers. Our attorneys know how to build strong legal cases backed by evidence, expert testimony, and strategic negotiation. We don’t just take the word of the insurance company—we conduct our own investigations, obtain police and toxicology reports, interview witnesses, and, when necessary, work with accident reconstruction professionals to determine exactly what happened and who’s responsible. Beyond proving liability, our goal is to make sure every client receives the full amount of compensation they’re entitled to under the law. That includes not only current medical expenses and lost wages but also: Future medical care (surgeries, rehab, medications) Lost future earning capacity Pain and suffering Mental and emotional trauma Property damage Punitive damages when applicable In particularly egregious cases, we may also pursue compensation from third parties under Iowa or Nebraska’s dram shop liability laws . If a bar, restaurant, or even a private event served alcohol to someone who was visibly intoxicated or underage, that establishment could be held partially liable for the damages. Dealing with injuries, doctors, bills, and the trauma of the crash is hard enough. You shouldn’t also have to navigate legal paperwork, deadlines, and difficult insurance adjusters on your own. We provide personal, compassionate, and aggressive legal representation—so you can focus on healing while we focus on justice. Remember: The other driver’s arrest or conviction does not guarantee you fair compensation. Civil and criminal cases are separate, and only a personal injury claim will secure the financial support you need to recover and rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver in Sioux City or the surrounding areas of Iowa and Nebraska, don’t wait. Call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll help you hold the drunk driver—and their insurance company—fully accountable.
More Posts