If you’re getting back out on the road after a car crash, it’s especially crucial to take things slow. As you’ve likely seen in the news, there have been numerous instances of drivers spinning out on Minnesota’s icy streets and highways.
A spinout involves a car spinning and sliding out of control. It’s one of the most frightening things that can happen to a driver. It’s easy to lose all sense of direction as you end up turned around, sometimes facing oncoming traffic, and moving over multiple lanes.
What to do if you start to spin out
The advice for dealing with a spinout is similar to that for a regular skid. This includes the following:
- Take your foot off the brake: If you brake, you could end up with your wheels locked.
- Steer gently into the slide: Turn the steering wheel in the direction the back wheels of your vehicle are sliding.
- Don’t panic: That can cause you to overcorrect.
When your car comes to a stop, don’t get out. That can be a deadly mistake. Stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until police or other first responders arrive. Even if you’ve gotten your vehicle over to the shoulder of the road, other cars can easily hit a patch of ice and crash into you.
One officer with the Minnesota State Patrol says, “That adds a layer of protection. In winter, we have had the unfortunate situation where another driver slides by and hits them. If you are outside your car, you risk being run over, and injuries can be pretty significant.”
If you’ve been involved in a crash caused by another driver, it’s crucial to ensure that you get the settlement you need to deal with medical bills and other expenses and damages. If you settle for too little just to get it over with, you likely won’t be able to go back and seek more money later. That’s just one reason why it can be worthwhile to have legal guidance with your claim.