Winter brings with it many dangers, in particular with Colorado already seeing above-average snowfall this fall, it’s a reminder that as winter approaches, roads can become hazardous, demanding extra caution from us as drivers. Snow, ice, and rain all pose unique challenges, but with the right techniques, you can stay safer on your travels. Let’s review some essential driving tips for navigating winter conditions if you must drive in them.

Tips for Driving on Snowy and Icy Roads

Let’s begin with the obvious–snow and ice on the roadways can create dangerous conditions. Here’s what to do to stay safe:

• Reduce Your Speed: Snow and ice drastically reduce your car’s traction, so driving slower gives you more control. Even if the posted speed limit is 55 mph, driving well below that in poor conditions is safer.
• Maintain a Safe Distance: Increase the distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Stopping on icy roads takes much longer—up to ten times more than on dry pavement. Aim for at least 8-10 seconds of following distance.
• Install Winter Tires: Winter tires provide improved grip in snow and ice, making a significant difference in handling and stopping capability. Ensure tires are properly inflated, as cold weather can lower tire pressure.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden braking or sharp turns can cause skidding. Accelerate and decelerate slowly to maintain traction, and if you do skid, steer gently into it without slamming the brakes.

Don’t Underestimate the Rain

After you’ve driven in snow and ice, rain on the roads may feel a bit tame–but don’t drop your guard. Rain can create slippery conditions, especially after a dry spell. Rain can also turn into ice in freezing temperatures, creating black ice—nearly invisible on the road. Be vigilant by keeping headlights on, using windshield wipers effectively, and avoiding cruise control. Stick to main roads, which are more likely to be salted or plowed.

When it comes to other areas, South Dakota in particular, it brings a whole new layer of complexity.

Why Choosing the Right South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyer Matters

When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the decisions you make afterward can shape your financial recovery, your health, and your peace of mind for years to come. One of the most important choices is selecting the right South Dakota personal injury lawyer to represent you.

Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to protect their bottom line. You deserve an advocate who is just as prepared, someone who understands South Dakota law, knows how to value your claim accurately, and is willing to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Does A South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyer Do?

A South Dakota personal injury lawyer represents individuals in the state who have been harmed because of another party’s careless, reckless, or intentional actions. These cases often involve physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial losses that can quickly become overwhelming without legal guidance.

Our role is to handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. That includes:

• Investigating how your injury occurred
• Identifying all liable parties
• Gathering medical records, accident reports, and expert opinions
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Filing a lawsuit when necessary
• Aggressively pursuing full and fair compensation

Types of Cases Our South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyers Handle

No two injury cases are exactly alike, but our South Dakota personal injury lawyers have experience handling a wide range of claims, including:

Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accidents

Motor vehicle collisions are among the most common personal injury cases in South Dakota. Whether your accident involved a distracted driver, a drunk driver, or a commercial truck, we work to hold negligent parties accountable.

Slip and Fall & Premises Liability

Property owners have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. If you were injured due to unsafe conditions like icy sidewalks, wet floors, poor lighting, or broken stairs, our South Dakota personal injury lawyer can help.

Workplace and Construction Accidents

While some workplace injuries fall under workers’ compensation, others involve third-party liability. Construction accidents, equipment failures, and unsafe job sites often require experienced legal analysis.

Medical Malpractice

When doctors, nurses, or healthcare providers fail to meet the accepted standard of care, the consequences can be devastating. These cases are complex and require a skilled South Dakota personal injury lawyer with access to medical experts.

Wrongful Death

If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence, no amount of compensation can undo that loss, but a wrongful death claim can help protect your family’s financial future and provide accountability.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Dog bite injuries can cause permanent scarring, infections, and emotional trauma, especially in children. South Dakota law allows victims to pursue compensation from negligent owners.

What Damages Can A South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyer Help You Recover?

One of the most important roles of a South Dakota personal injury lawyer is accurately valuing your claim. Many people underestimate the true cost of an injury, especially when future medical care or long-term limitations are involved.

Depending on your case, damages may include:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills (past, current, and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
• Prescription medications and medical devices
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Punitive Damages (When Applicable)

In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

Our South Dakota personal injury lawyer works with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to ensure no category of damages is overlooked.

What Sets Our South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyers Apart?

While our firm is headquartered in Denver, our attorneys handle complex litigation throughout the Rocky Mountain region and beyond, including South Dakota. We have earned a reputation for compassion and dedication that we work hard to uphold. Here are a few things that set us apart from other South Dakota personal injury firms:

In-Depth Local Knowledge of South Dakota Law

Personal injury laws vary by state. We are intimately familiar with South Dakota’s comparative fault rules, statutes of limitations, and local court procedures, and we use that knowledge to your advantage.

Personalized Attention

You are not just a case number. We take the time to understand how your injury has impacted your life, your family, and your future. Every legal strategy is tailored to your specific situation.

Proven Negotiation & Trial Experience

While many cases settle out of court, insurance companies know which attorneys are ready to go to trial. Our willingness to fight  in court strengthens your negotiating position from day one.

No Fees Unless We Win

We believe everyone deserves access to justice. That’s why our South Dakota personal injury lawyer works on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

Compassionate, Client-First Approach

Injury cases are stressful. We prioritize clear communication, honest advice, and responsive service so you’re never left wondering where your case stands.

When Should You Contact a South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyer?

The sooner you speak with a South Dakota personal injury lawyer, the better. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurance companies often move quickly to protect themselves.

Early legal involvement helps:

• Preserve critical evidence
• Avoid costly mistakes when speaking with insurers
• Ensure deadlines are met
• Maximize the value of your claim

Choose a South Dakota Personal Injury Lawyer Who Will Fight for You

If you or a loved one has been injured, you deserve an advocate who understands what’s at stake. Ogborn Mihm is committed to protecting your rights, pursuing full compensation, and guiding you through every step of the legal process, contact our firm here. You focus on recovery; we’ll handle the rest.