There are many ways to avoid a car accident. While some aren't avoidable, most are. A rule of thumb is to be aware of your surroundings; stop, look, listen, reduce your speed, and don't tailgate. Distracted driving, no matter the season, is still the most common cause of road accidents in the United States.

Fall is the season for colorful foliage, cool weather, long nights, and deer. From October to December, mating and hunting season make deer more active. For some drivers, this can be a scary thing.

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If you hit a deer with your car, here's what to do:

1. Move your vehicle to the side of the road

and turn on your hazard lights.

2. Call the police to document the incident,

take photos, if need be.

3. If the deer is visible and injured, stay away

from it.

4. Contact your car insurance company.

5. Don't assume your vehicle is safe to drive.

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According to the Federal Highway Administration, Winter weather can have a significant impact on driver safety. On average, there are over 150,000 car accidents across the country, due to icy pavements. While any type of ice buildup on roadways can be quite challenging, one of the most difficult weather conditions that we deal with in Upstate, NY is black ice.

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Black ice is a very thin, nearly transparent, coating of ice that's on blacktops of roadways, parking lots and sidewalks. Black ice is not only very slick, but it's dangerous. Black ice is dangerous because it’s extremely difficult to see. One of the biggest dangers of black ice is that you’re really at it’s mercy when you drive over it. According to Esurance.com, black ice is so dangerous because it’s hard to notice, until you lose control of your vehicle.

 

Black ice commonly forms on:

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• Shaded areas of road

• Bridges

• Overpasses

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There are steps you can take to minimize the likelihood of being involved in a car accident caused by black ice. You'll first notice it when your car starts to slide or lose traction.

 

Below are steps to take when your vehicle hits black ice. 

1. Stay three to four car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.
 

2. Reduce your speed and be vigilant.
 

3. Never hit the brakes to avoid skidding.
 

4. If you encounter black ice, do not over-correct your steering. Instead, gently turn your steering wheel into the direction that you are skidding as you ease off the accelerator.

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Driving in different seasons provides different driving conditions that require drivers to be more cautious and alert. Whether you hit a deer or damaged your vehicle from sliding on black ice, Four Seasons Collision is here for you. Call Brockport’s Trusted Collision Specialist at (585) 431-3077.