Virginians received an icy surprise earlier this month when a major snowstorm swept through many parts of the state. Although locals were prepared for a few inches of snow, the storm brought more than a foot to the Fredericksburg area. As the snow fell, vehicles on the road slowed down and eventually stopped. For some vehicles, there was reportedly as much as four inches of ice frozen underneath.
According to a recent news report, hundreds of drivers were stranded on Interstate 95 in Virginia overnight. Following the major snowstorm, traffic came to a standstill on I-95 after hundreds of cars got into various accidents that left vehicles trapped or stalled. Many people abandoned their cars, while others spent the night in their vehicles on the highway. Throughout the night, state troopers reportedly moved along the 40 mile stretch of highway from vehicle to vehicle providing supplies.
More than 24 hours after many individuals had been stranded, emergency crews finally freed hundreds of drivers. Tow trucks dragged hundreds of disabled cars out of the ice. Although the interstate reopened after most vehicles were cleared off, local authorities warned drivers that snowy weather conditions could still lead to slick roads and limiting unnecessary travel overnight was advised.
While major snowstorms that lead to spending the night on a highway seem rare, it is always best to be as prepared as possible when driving in inclement weather or in conditions that may worsen beyond what the experts predict. At a certain point, there is only so much even the most proactive, careful driver can do on the road if they get stuck.
Drivers often have two choices when they are stuck on the road because of the weather or other external factors: abandon their vehicle or wait. If you decide to abandon your vehicle, it is best to do so only if you are within walking distance and can safely navigate your way to a local business or neighborhood. Otherwise, traveling on foot in poor weather conditions with poor visibility may be even more dangerous than spending the night in your vehicle.
If you do decide to wait or spend the night in your vehicle, it is crucial that you ration your gasoline and available resources strategically. Some drivers, for example, chose to get up every hour to charge their phones and warm up in their cars intermittently to conserve gas during the recent snowstorm. Others were fortunate enough to have additional supplies in their vehicles. In case of an emergency, it always helps to have extra clothes, a blanket, some non-perishable snacks and food, and water bottles in your car. Although it may seem silly to leave items in your car that may never get used, it is a small cost to pay upfront in the event that an emergency really does take place and these items could save your life.
Do You Need a Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you or someone you know was recently injured in a Virginia car accident, contact The Schupak Law Firm today. Sidney Schupak is an experienced personal injury lawyer who will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact us at 703-491-7070.