Winter Driving Dangers in Texas: Essential Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

Winter weather in Texas may not be as severe as in northern states, but when icy conditions hit North and East Texas, they can change road conditions quickly and dramatically. From black ice on rural highways to reduced visibility in early sunsets, winter hazards significantly increase the risk of car accidents. Whether you’re driving through Terrell, Forney, Kaufman County, or walking near traffic, understanding how winter conditions impact safety and liability can help protect you and your loved ones.

How Winter Weather Creates Dangerous Road Conditions

According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly one-quarter of all weather-related crashes occur on icy, slushy, or snow-covered roads. Another 15% take place during active snowfall. Even a thin layer of ice can turn North Texas roads into slick, unpredictable surfaces, making it harder for drivers to steer, brake, or stop safely.

Emergency crews in Kaufman County, Terrell, and surrounding areas often experience delays during winter storms, which can make injuries worse and increase the severity of collisions. When temperatures stay below freezing, conditions can deteriorate rapidly.

The Hidden Threat of Black Ice

Black ice is one of the most dangerous winter hazards for Texas drivers. This nearly invisible layer of ice often develops overnight or during early morning hours and blends into the pavement. Even experienced drivers can lose control after hitting black ice at normal speeds.

Each year, icy roads cause more than 150,000 crashes and over 550 deaths nationwide. In rural areas across Kaufman County and East Texas—where lighting is limited—black ice becomes especially dangerous.

Shorter Days Increase Pedestrian Risks

With winter sunsets coming earlier, more drivers in Terrell and Forney are on the roads after dark. Reduced daylight makes it harder for motorists to spot pedestrians, especially those wearing dark clothing or walking near snow-covered sidewalks. Nearly 80% of pedestrian fatalities occur at night, and winter conditions only amplify these dangers.

Common Driver Mistakes That Lead to Winter Crashes

Many winter collisions are preventable, but certain errors make crashes more likely. One frequent mistake is failing to clear snow or ice from a vehicle. Snow left on a roof can blow onto the windshield or into traffic, and ice-covered windows drastically reduce visibility. Some states even issue fines for not clearing vehicles properly.

Other risky behaviors include:

• Driving too fast for icy or wet conditions
• Following vehicles too closely on slick roads
• Forgetting to turn on headlights in dim or snowy weather
• Slamming brakes on icy pavement instead of using slow, controlled pressure
• Making sharp turns on roads that haven’t been treated or plowed

These mistakes frequently cause multi-vehicle accidents—especially on high-speed roads such as I‑20, Highway 80, and rural routes throughout Kaufman County and East Texas.

Additional Hazards on Rural Roads & for Commercial Drivers

Rural communities around Terrell, Forney, Kaufman, and Greenville often deal with slower snow and ice removal. Bridges and overpasses freeze first, and without street lighting, black ice becomes almost impossible to see.

Emergency response times also tend to be longer in rural areas, increasing the severity of injuries after a crash.

Commercial Truck Risks

Large trucks pose an even greater risk during winter storms. Tractor‑trailers require significantly more stopping distance, and even cautious braking may fail on ice. In serious cases, trucks may jackknife—sending the trailer sliding sideways across lanes.

The Federal Highway Administration reports more than 1,800 fatalities each year in crashes on snowy or icy roads, many involving commercial trucks. A tragic reminder is the 2021 Fort Worth pileup, where icy conditions triggered a 130‑vehicle chain‑reaction crash that killed six people and injured dozens more.

When Low Visibility Meets Distraction

Winter driving often means battling fogged windows, adjusting the heater, or navigating unfamiliar routes. At the same time, pedestrians may be bundled up, carrying gear, or walking on slippery sidewalks—making them harder to see.

Children walking to school in dark morning hours are especially vulnerable, while older adults face increased fall risks and slower movement. When you combine poor visibility, icy roads, and momentary distraction, serious accidents can happen in seconds.

How to Stay Safe on Winter Roads

Drivers throughout Terrell, Forney, Greenville, and Kaufman County can reduce their risks by taking a few simple precautions:

• Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle—even the roof and headlights.
• Slow down and allow extra space between your car and others.
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns; use steady pressure to prevent skidding.
• Keep an emergency kit with essentials like a scraper, blanket, flashlight, and sand or kitty litter for traction.

Pedestrians can also improve safety by wearing bright or reflective clothing, using crosswalks, sticking to sidewalks, and staying alert when crossing streets—especially in dim or icy conditions.

If a Winter Accident Happens, Legal Help Matters

Even when you take precautions, winter crashes still occur—and they often lead to complicated injury claims. Poor road maintenance, multiple vehicles, and unclear fault can make the process even more challenging.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a winter-related accident—whether as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian—working with a personal injury lawyer in Terrell, Kaufman County, Forney, or East Texas can make a significant difference. An experienced attorney can help determine fault, handle the insurance company, gather evidence, and fight for compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

If you’ve been hurt in a winter crash, don’t wait to get answers. Contact our team at the Law Offices of Houston M. Smith, P.C. to understand your rights and explore your options after a winter accident.