Car accidents could be on the rise as the weather worsens and the roads become icier. Western Pennsylvania is expected to be covered in a light slushy layer of snow this week. In the Butler area, one inch is expected, but in the Beaver Falls area 1-2 inches are expected. The worst area could be the Interstate 80 corridor, which could be covered with 2-4 inches of snow. This could impact the areas of New Castle, Mercer, Grove City, Franklin and Oil City.

There is a chance of a 'flash freeze' to occur with the temperature dropping below freezing. Drivers should be careful of road conditions as the temperatures drop below 32 degrees, causing the water and slush on the road to freeze and turn to ice. Be cautious of not only the roads, but also the sidewalks if you are walking. 

Conditions can change in just a few hours and you must always be prepared. To stay safe and avoid car accidents, follow these tips.

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids. Don't try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: It takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
• Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, and turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
• The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop and help prevent rear-end collisions.
• Know your brakes. Whether you have antilock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold breaking. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.

During this winter season if you or someone you know have been involved in a car accident, contact the car accident attorneys at Dallas W. Hartman, P.C. for a free initial consultation at 800-777-4081.

Source: CBS Pittsburgh. "Rain Expected to Become Snow as Temperature Drops". 17 November 2014.

AAA Exchange. "Winter Driving Tips". 17 November 2014.