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Truck Drivers Winter Safety Tips
Robert Stahle • December 11, 2019
When you’re behind the wheel of your rig during the winter, there are extra safety precautions that need to be taken. Winter weather such as high winds, ice, snow, and cold can sneak up on even the most experienced truck drivers, and all it takes is one short moment of neglect in order for a costly mistake to occur. Winter demands increased awareness and driving skills, and it is essential that you approach driving in this season with caution and preparedness.
At Fitch & Stahle , our personal injury lawyers know the importance of truck drivers being safe during the winter. Here are some safety tips.
Be Prepared
Before departing on your trip in winter weather, it is important that you are prepared for whatever unsafe conditions may be thrown at you. Here is a list of things that you should make sure that you have in your truck when driving in winter:
●A blanket, food, and water
●Proper warm clothing and a coat
●A flashlight
●A bag of sand or salt and extra windshield wiper fluid
●Jumper cables
●Tire chains or traction mats
●At least half a tank of gas at all times
●A windshield scraper
●Spare tire
Additionally, you should complete a pre-trip inspection where all important parts are checked, including tires, wiper blades and fluid, and lights. Tire pressure should also be checked. Look for any punctures orleaks that could potentially become more severe and cause a flat on the road.
Winter Driving Tips
When you’re behind the wheel during winter conditions, you have to take extra care to avoid an auto accident. Snow, sleet, and ice can cause trucks to slide or skid, especially when there is black ice that you cannot see from your rig. Here are some ways to avoid an accident when driving in winter.
Slow Down
A large amount of winter accidents occur because the driver is going too fast. By going slower, you will have more time to react if something occurs. When you’re going too fast on ice, there is a higher likelihood of hydroplaning and skidding on ice.
Brake and Accelerate Lightly
When driving in winter, never do anything forcefully. Braking and accelerating should be done gradually in order to avoid spinning out or sliding on ice. If your vehicle has an anti-locking braking system (ABS), you should press and hold the brake down as far as possible in an emergency. If you do not have ABS, try lightly pumping your brakes.
Use Extra Caution on Bridges
Bridges and highway overpasses tend to freeze first during the winter, and many of them are not treated with salt and sand like the rest of the road. Because of this, you should approach bridges with caution.
Contact a Sioux City Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been in a semi truck accident, make a personal injury claim with our team at Fitch & Stahle. We understand how an injury can change your life, and we will fight for you to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
To learn more about our personal injury services, contact us at (402) 494-3012.
If you’ve recently been in a car accident, you're likely dealing with more than just vehicle damage. The aftermath of an auto collision can be overwhelming—medical bills, missed work, emotional stress, and constant calls from insurance adjusters. During this time, it’s easy to feel like you’re navigating a maze alone. That’s where a qualified car accident attorney can make a significant difference. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we’re here to explain why hiring an experienced lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. 1. Understanding the Legal Complexity of Car Accidents Car accident claims are rarely as simple as they seem. While the facts may appear straightforward—one car hit another—multiple factors like weather conditions, traffic laws, and vehicle defects can complicate liability. 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Witnesses forget details, accident scenes get cleaned up, and insurance companies may fail to preserve relevant records. At Fitch & Stahle, we act quickly to secure the evidence you need. Our legal team gathers police reports, photographs, surveillance footage, medical records, and witness statements. In complex cases, we may also bring in accident reconstruction specialists to strengthen your claim. 5. Meeting Deadlines and Legal Requirements Every state has a statute of limitations that limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. In Iowa, for example, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation altogether. Beyond the statute of limitations, there are other procedural requirements, such as notifying your insurance company or filing certain documents in a specific format. One small mistake could delay or derail your case. When you work with Fitch & Stahle, we ensure every deadline is met and every form is filed correctly, giving your case the best chance at success. 6. You’ll Be Better Prepared if the Case Goes to Court While many car accident cases settle out of court, some do proceed to trial—especially when fault is disputed or damages are significant. Having a lawyer from the beginning means you're prepared for anything. Our attorneys are experienced litigators who are not afraid to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to get justice. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which puts us in a stronger negotiating position from day one. 7. Peace of Mind While You Focus on Recovery One of the most overlooked benefits of hiring an attorney is the peace of mind it brings. After an accident, your focus should be on healing—not haggling with insurance companies or navigating complex legal systems. When you hire Fitch & Stahle, we take on the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. From handling paperwork and phone calls to negotiating settlements and representing you in court, we’ll be your advocate every step of the way. Real Clients. Real Results. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm, we’ve represented countless car accident victims throughout Sioux City and the surrounding communities. Our proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts speaks to the dedication and skill of our legal team. “After my accident, I didn’t know where to start. Fitch & Stahle took care of everything and made sure I got the compensation I needed to get back on my feet.” – Former Client Contact Fitch & Stahle Law Firm Today The decisions you make after a car accident can impact your life for years to come. Don’t go through it alone. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Sioux City or anywhere in the tri-state area, contact Fitch & Stahle Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options—at no cost to you unless we win. Fitch & Stahle Law Firm — Fighting for Siouxland’s Injured Since Day One. 📞 Call today or visit fitch-stahlelaw.com to schedule your free consultation.
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Understanding these steps can help you prepare and avoid common pitfalls. Contact Fitch & Stahle today to discuss your case. 2. Understanding Comparative Fault in Car Accidents: How It Affects Your Claim One of the most misunderstood aspects of car accident cases is comparative fault. Many accident victims assume that if they share any blame for the accident, they can’t recover compensation. However, laws vary by state, and even if you are partially at fault, you may still be entitled to damages. How Comparative Fault Works • Pure Comparative Fault: In some states, you can recover damages even if you are 99% at fault, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. • Modified Comparative Fault: Many states bar recovery if you are more than 50% or 51% responsible for the accident. • Contributory Negligence: A few states prevent you from receiving any compensation if you are even 1% at fault. 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How to Secure Witness Testimony • Get Contact Information: Always collect names, phone numbers, and addresses of potential witnesses. • Ask for a Statement: If possible, have them describe what they saw while it’s fresh in their memory. • Work with Your Attorney: Your lawyer can follow up and ensure their testimony is properly documented. If you’ve been in a car accident, don’t underestimate the power of a strong witness statement. Contact us at Fitch & Stahle to discuss how we can use this evidence to strengthen your case. 4. Understanding Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages in Car Accident Cases After a car accident, victims may be entitled to different types of damages. Understanding the difference between economic and non-economic damages can help you build a comprehensive claim. 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Common Weather-Related Accidents • Rain & Wet Roads: Slippery surfaces increase stopping distances and reduce control. • Snow & Ice: Black ice and snowy roads can lead to loss of control. • Fog & Low Visibility: Limited visibility increases the risk of collisions. Determining Fault in Weather-Related Accidents While poor weather can contribute to an accident, drivers are still expected to adjust their behavior accordingly. Liability may depend on whether a driver: • Was driving too fast for conditions • Failed to use headlights or windshield wipers properly • Followed another vehicle too closely If you were in a weather-related accident, having an attorney review your case can help determine fault and ensure you receive fair compensation. Contact Fitch & Stahle for expert legal guidance. 6. The Importance of Seeking Medical Attention After a Car Accident One of the most crucial steps after a car accident is seeking medical attention. 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However, involving an attorney early can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Attorney Quickly • Preserving Evidence: Attorneys can collect crucial evidence before it disappears. • Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim, but an attorney ensures fair negotiations. • Avoiding Mistakes: Legal guidance helps prevent common errors that could weaken your case. • Maximizing Compensation: Lawyers understand how to calculate and pursue the full extent of your damages. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Fitch & Stahle today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.