The severity of the winter season varies dramatically by region in the United States. Cities in the northern parts of America may experience blistering cold, massive snowfall, and significant ice accumulation. These elements can make traveling treacherous for drivers.
On the other hand, winter weather in Atlanta, GA, may include none of these elements. It often involves little snow, ice, or frigid temperatures. Th is impacts the way the city prepares its roads and road crews for the season and what drivers can expect if inclement weather does strike. Such knowledge can help you avoid an injury or a fatal wreck in the snow and ice.
Typical Winter Weather in Atlanta Compared To Other Cities
Given its geography, Atlanta sees little accumulating snowfall from one year to the next. On average, the city receives about three inches of snow each year. The most snow in recent history was in 1935 and 1936, when Atlanta recorded nearly 11 inches of snowfall. Average Atlanta winter temps usually remain in the low- to mid-50s and 60s during the day.
Contrast the Atlanta, Georgia, winter weather experience with that of Minneapolis. There, residents see over four feet of snowfall on average every year. Just a few years ago, the area received approximately 90 inches of snow. Temperatures can be frigid — as cold as 30 degrees below zero — and the wind can be equally brutal.
Atlanta’s Approach To Winter Weather
Because Atlanta’s winters are typically mild, it is understandable that the city does not devote much of its annual budget to winter weather management. If snow and ice do form, the city tries to melt the precipitation with rock salt or other compounds. Unlike a city like Minneapolis, Atlanta does not spend significant amounts on snow removal equipment.
How Atlanta’s Approach To Winter Weather Impacts Drivers
Although practical, Atlanta’s snow- and ice-melting strategy can create headaches for drivers when the occasional winter storm hits. When white flakes begin to fall and accumulate, drivers should:
1. Expect Roads To Be Slick, At Least Initially
If a sudden snow or ice storm surprises Atlanta, it can take some time for the city to mobilize its few resources to treat the roads. Depending on the temperature and the material used to de-ice the roads, it can take several hours after snow or ice has started to fall before any accumulation starts to melt. Until then, pay attention to the road conditions and slow down to avoid a car crash.
2. Major Highways and Roads Will Receive Priority
When trucks and equipment are deployed to treat roads for snow and ice, the streets that see the most traffic will receive priority attention, since truck accidents in Houston are more common to this season. Side roads and residential streets will be treated last, if at all. Thus, even if it appears that the main roads are clear, give yourself additional time to reach your destination if you will be using less-traveled streets.
3. Your Car’s Maintenance Matters
Atlanta’s snow and ice plans make it even more important to keep your car in good working order during the winter months. Repair worn or damaged tires to ensure the greatest amount of traction and control possible. Also, keep your windshield washer fluid topped off and replace old windshield wipers. Finally, have your brakes inspected and replaced, if necessary.
Winter Driving in Atlanta Can Be Dangerous
Does it snow in Georgia? Sometimes, but not much in the Atlanta area. As a result, the city is not prepared to remove large quantities of snow and ice. In the event of a winter storm, the city will focus primarily on trying to melt the snow quickly. If you find yourself in the Atlanta area during one of these rare events, expect slick roads and take your time to avoid an accident, and contact the best car accident lawyers in Houston at Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers.
Contact the Personal Injury Lawyers of Spartan Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Spartan Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have two convenient locations in Georgia, including Atlanta and Jonesboro, GA.
We proudly serve Fulton County and Clayton County, GA, and its surrounding areas:
Spartan Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
139 Ralph McGill Blvd NE, Suite 301, Atlanta, GA 30308
(844) 772 7826
Open 24 Hours
Spartan Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Jonesboro
6909 Tara Blvd, Ste 200, Jonesboro, GA 30236
(678) 928-5051
Mon – Sun: 9:00am – 5:00pm