Winter weather brings a unique set of challenges to anyone traveling on the road—whether behind the wheel or on foot. Snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours can dramatically increase the odds of an accident. Understanding how these conditions affect visibility, traction, and safety can help you stay protected and know your rights if an incident occurs.

How Winter Weather Increases Road Hazards

Driving in winter can feel unpredictable, and with good reason. Data from the Federal Highway Administration shows that roughly 24% of weather-related crashes occur on snowy, icy, or slushy surfaces, while another 15% happen during active snowfall. These conditions greatly reduce a driver’s ability to steer, accelerate, and brake properly. Slippery roads combined with limited visibility often result in more serious collisions, especially since emergency services may take longer to reach the scene.

One of the most dangerous winter threats is black ice—a nearly invisible glaze that forms during early morning or late-night hours. Even seasoned drivers can lose control instantly when hitting black ice at normal speeds. Each year, icy roads contribute to over 150,000 crashes and claim more than 550 lives across the United States.

Winter doesn’t just impact drivers—pedestrians are at higher risk too. Since the sun sets earlier, many people find themselves commuting or walking home in the dark. Reduced visibility makes it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, particularly if snowbanks force people closer to roadways or if they’re wearing darker clothing. Nearly 80% of pedestrian fatalities occur at night, and winter conditions make these dangers even more pronounced.

Frequent Driver Errors During Winter Months

Many cold-weather accidents could be avoided entirely. A major oversight involves not fully cleaning snow or ice from a vehicle before driving. Snow left on a roof can slide forward onto the windshield or blow onto another car, reducing visibility and creating serious hazards. In fact, some states—including Pennsylvania and New Jersey—have specific penalties for drivers who fail to clear accumulated snow from their vehicles.

Speed is another common issue. Driving too fast for the conditions, following other cars too closely, and neglecting to use headlights in low-visibility situations significantly increase accident risks. Sharp turns or sudden braking on slippery pavement can quickly lead to skidding or losing control, especially on roads that haven’t been treated.

Additional Dangers on Rural Roads and With Large Trucks

Rural communities face distinct winter road challenges. Many less-traveled routes are slower to receive plowing or salting, and bridges or overpasses tend to freeze earlier than flat pavement. Limited lighting and fewer traffic signals can make it difficult to detect stalled vehicles, pedestrians, or icy patches. When accidents occur, longer emergency response times can worsen injuries and outcomes.

Commercial drivers face even greater risks. Large trucks need far more distance to stop, and in winter conditions, that space increases dramatically. Even careful braking may not prevent skidding. Jackknife accidents—where a trailer swings outward and blocks multiple lanes—can unfold in moments and create devastating chain-reaction crashes. According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 1,800 people die each year in accidents on snowy or icy roads, with many involving commercial trucks.

The massive 130-car pileup in Fort Worth in 2021 illustrates how quickly conditions can turn deadly. Icy roads contributed to multiple collisions that resulted in six deaths and dozens of injuries, emphasizing just how catastrophic winter road events can become.

Distraction and Poor Visibility: A Dangerous Mix

When both drivers and pedestrians are distracted—particularly during snow, sleet, or darkness—the chance of an accident skyrockets. Drivers may be adjusting the heat, defrosters, or GPS systems, while pedestrians might be juggling heavy coats, bags, or simply concentrating on staying upright on icy sidewalks.

Children walking to school in the early morning are especially difficult to see if they’re not wearing reflective clothing. Older adults also face higher risks due to limited balance on slick pavement and slower movement when crossing streets. With ice, low lighting, and fast-moving cars all sharing the same space, these groups are particularly vulnerable during winter months.

How Drivers Can Stay Safe on Winter Roads

There are several steps drivers can take to lower their chances of a winter accident. Clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle—including windows, lights, mirrors, and the roof—is essential before heading out. Reducing speed and leaving more distance between your car and others gives you extra time to react in slippery conditions. Soft, gradual braking can also help prevent your wheels from locking up on icy pavement.

Keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle is a smart precaution. Your kit might include a scraper, flashlight, blanket, and even a bag of kitty litter or sand to help with traction if you get stuck.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Pedestrians can also take steps to protect themselves. Wearing bright or reflective clothing helps drivers spot you more easily, especially in the dark. Stick to designated crosswalks whenever possible, and avoid walking in the roadway even if snowbanks narrow the sidewalk. Staying alert—particularly by avoiding phone use while crossing streets—can significantly reduce your risk during low-visibility conditions.

When Winter Accidents Occur, Legal Support Is Important

Even with cautious behavior, accidents still happen. Unfortunately, crashes that occur in winter weather often involve complicated insurance questions and can lead to serious injuries. If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a winter collision—whether as a pedestrian or driver—speaking with a personal injury attorney may be crucial. A lawyer can help with insurance disputes, evaluate the full extent of your damages, and work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been involved in a winter accident, don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Contact our firm to better understand your rights and explore your options moving forward.