Winter in New Hampshire means many things: excellent winter sports, stunning snow-powdered scenery–and, unfortunately, icy bridges and roads. Such ice can create unexpected hazards for drivers, especially as many motorists aren’t aware that bridges and overpasses tend to form ice before roads. Bridges can ice over even when the rest of the road is dry and clear. People unaware of this are at risk of being caught off guard, especially during early winter mornings or on cold days when they may not expect ice, which can lead to a serious accident.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident on an icy road due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to financial compensation. Reach out to the New Hampshire Personal Injury lawyers at Tenn And Tenn, P.A. to learn more as soon as possible. Call us today at 888-511-1010 or contact us online for a free consultation. We represent clients all over the state, from Colebrook to Nashua.
Why Bridges Ice First
Roads are built on the ground, and the earth beneath contributes its heat to them. When temperatures drop, the ground retains some of the earth’s warmth. Bridges, on the other hand, are elevated. Without the insulating warmth of the earth, bridges lose heat more quickly than roads. As temperatures fall, bridges cool faster, causing any moisture present on them (rain, fog, dew, etc.) to freeze more rapidly than on a road.
In addition, the air circulating under the bridge helps speed up the cooling process. Wind passing above, below, and around the bridge can quickly lower the bridge’s surface temperature, particularly when the air temperature is near or below freezing. A rapid drop in temperature can cause ice to form on the bridge even when the road leading up to it is still ice-free.
How Icy Bridges Can Cause Car Accidents
Icy bridges following dry roads can be treacherous to drive upon for multiple reasons:
- Black Ice. The ice that forms on bridges is often “black ice,” a form of ice that’s thin and nearly invisible, especially in low-light conditions or when overcast. Most drivers don’t notice it until they’re already on it and feel the tires suddenly lose traction. When driving on ice unexpectedly, you might suddenly find yourself unable to brake or steer, and the car may skid or spin out of control. The faster you’re going, the more likely you are to lose control when you hit the ice.
- Dangerous Reflexive Actions. When the road is clear, drivers tend to feel a sense of security, especially if they haven’t encountered any ice or snow. But when they hit an icy bridge, the change from a surface with friction to a slippery one is abrupt. This shift can catch you by surprise, and you may reflexively slam on the brakes or sharply turn the wheel—which can lead to skidding or a collision.
- Greater Stopping Distance. The reduced friction on icy roads makes it more difficult to stop or slow the vehicle than on a dry road. This increased stopping time can lead to an accident, especially if other vehicles are involved, or there are obstacles on the bridge.
What to Do If Crossing an Icy Bridge
If you find yourself needing to cross a potentially icy bridge, there are several strategies to help you stay safe:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed before you reach the bridge. Slowing down gives you more control over the vehicle and increases your ability to react to any sudden changes in road conditions.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: If the bridge turns out to be icy, avoid sudden braking, accelerating, or sharp steering. Sudden movements can result in a loss of control over your vehicle.
- Stay Alert: In cold weather, if you see a sign indicating an upcoming bridge, assume that it may be icy even if the road appears dry and clear.
- Don’t Tailgate: Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. The extra room gives you more time to react if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows down or stops.
New Hampshire Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
Even if you drive perfectly in icy conditions, accidents can still happen. If you’ve been injured in a car accident on an icy bridge in New Hampshire, contact the skilled New Hampshire personal injury lawyer of Tenn And Tenn, P.A. as soon as possible. Our legal team has represented victims of winter vehicle accidents throughout New Hampshire, including Londonderry, Lebanon, Portsmouth, and more. We understand how terrifying and damaging ice accidents can be, and we will fight to ensure you receive any compensation due. Contact us today at 888-511-1010 or online for your free evaluation.