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How Weather Impacts Your Driving
and What You Can Do About It
 (5/20) According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were reportedly 39,345 traffic fatalities in 2024. While this number shows a slight decline nationwide, weather-related driving dangers remain a serious threat to motorists everywhere. These risks become particularly acute in regions like Colorado Springs, where harsh winter conditions transform familiar roads into treacherous pathways.
If your daily travels require you to drive through downpours, snowstorms, dense fog, or scorching heat, this guide was created with you in mind.
After carefully analyzing some of the most common weather-related driving hazards, we have put together practical tips that can help keep you safe on the road, regardless of the conditions you face. These simple adjustments to your driving habits might just save your life during the next storm.
Adjust Your Speed to Match Weather Conditions
Weather dramatically affects road safety across America. The Federal Highway Administration found that 70% of weather-related crashes occur on wet pavement and 46% during rainfall. Winter conditions account for fewer incidents, with 18% during snow or sleet, 16% on snowy or slushy pavement, and 13% on icy roads.
Driving at the posted speed limit isn't always the safest choice when the weather turns bad. Your vehicle needs more time and distance to stop on wet or icy roads. For instance, braking distance can double on wet pavement and increase tenfold on icy surfaces.
When visibility drops due to heavy rain, fog, or snow, reducing your speed becomes even more important. This gives you extra seconds to react to sudden obstacles or other drivers' mistakes. Remember that posted speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, not stormy weather.
Many weather-related accidents happen because drivers fail to adjust their speed appropriately. By simply slowing down and increasing the following distance, you dramatically improve your chances of arriving safely. This small adjustment might add a few minutes to your journey, but could prevent a lifetime of regret.
Know Your Legal Rights After a Weather-Related Crash
The unpredictable weather in Colorado Springs creates dangerous driving conditions throughout the year. Just last February, the Colorado State Patrol investigated seven fatal crashes over just three days during Presidents Day weekend across several counties, including El Paso.
More recently, the weather department issued warnings for severe thunderstorms with 2-inch hail and possible tornadoes in the area.
If you or someone you love becomes involved in a weather-related accident, remember that help is available. After getting fully examined by a doctor, talk to a qualified car accident lawyer in Colorado Springs to explore your legal options.
Vehicle injury attorneys are bona fide experts in handling weather-related crashes. From thorough investigation to skilled litigation, they can guide you through every step of the recovery process.
Springs Law Group explains that most personal injury lawyers in Colorado Springs take cases on a contingency fee basis. You won't have to pay anything out of pocket to get started. Instead, the lawyer takes a fixed percentage from the settlement only if your case is successful. Put simply, if there's no payout, you don't owe them a dime. This setup makes it easier for injured drivers to get legal support without stressing over legal bills.
Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle
Weather-related emergencies can strand you unexpectedly. A basic emergency kit in your vehicle provides peace of mind and practical help when you need it most.
During winter months, pack extra warm clothing, blankets, and hand warmers. Include a small shovel, ice scraper, and bag of sand or cat litter for traction if you get stuck. Battery-powered flashlights, extra batteries, and non-perishable snacks should stay in your vehicle year-round.
Always keep your gas tank at least half full when bad weather hits. In freezing temperatures, this helps prevent your fuel lines from icing up. It also makes sure you have enough gas to keep the engine running in case of an emergency. Along with that, carry a fully charged power bank or portable phone charger. If your car battery dies or you're stranded somewhere remote, staying connected can make all the difference.
Store all supplies in a waterproof container that's easily accessible from the driver's seat, not buried in your trunk under luggage or other items.
Maintain Your Tires for Better Traction
Your tires provide the only contact between your vehicle and the road, making them crucial for safe driving in bad weather. The U.S. Government rates tires through the Uniform Tire Quality Grading System. It includes scores for treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance displayed right on the sidewall of every passenger tire sold in America.
When shopping for tires, pay attention to the traction rating (AA, A, B, or C), which measures how well tires stop on wet surfaces. AA offers the best wet performance, while C provides the minimum acceptable grip. For areas with frequent rain or snow, choosing tires with higher traction ratings can significantly improve your safety margin.
Check your tire pressure monthly, as it naturally decreases in cold weather. For every 10 degree drop in temperature, tires lose about 1 PSI of pressure. Underinflated tires reduce handling ability and increase stopping distance on wet roads.
Don't forget to examine tread depth regularly. The penny test works well - insert a penny upside down into your tire groove. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, your tread is too worn for safe driving. Ideally, you should replace your tires when tread depth reaches 4/32 inch, especially if you frequently drive in rain or snow.
Eyes on the Road, Please!
Weather will always present challenges on the road, but taking these practical steps makes a significant difference. Properly maintaining your vehicle, adjusting your driving to conditions, planning ahead, and staying prepared for emergencies will keep you safer during your travels.
Never forget that arriving late is better than not arriving at all. The few extra minutes you spend driving cautiously or preparing properly might be the most important investment you make in your safety.
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