Whether you're a longtime resident of the Upper Marlboro area or are a transplant from another state, the incoming winter storm is known as Jonas likely has you worrying just a little. That's because, in some parts of the state, upwards of two feet of snow are predicted to fall, burying homeowners and motorists alike.
Though the mild winter so far has left Maryland with a solid reserve of road salt, it's very important for today's readers to remember that though our plows will try to stay on top of the storm, it will be impossible for them to cover all of the roads at the same time. Roads that have yet to be plowed will be very slick and dangerous to traverse. Whether you're driving a car or a commercial truck, these treacherous conditions will make minor accidents and serious collisions more likely.
The biggest concern will be for commercial drivers in Maryland. While some may know about the impending storm and have prepared for it accordingly, many commercial drivers may be from out of state, meaning they may not know about the intensively of it or how dangerous it will make the roads. If they come from a state where snow doesn't fall, they might not even know the safest way to drive in these conditions.
It's important to point out that even though car-on-car collisions can still be serious and lead to injuries or death, the risk is much higher with commercial vehicles due to their size and weight. If residents in Maryland must go out on the roads while Winter Storm Jonas is running its course, please drive carefully and keep in mind that slippery roads can lead to crashes for which you may be held liable. And if those accidents lead to injury or death, you may even be held liable for the victim's compensation as well.
Source: The Weather Channel, "Winter Storm Jonas: Blizzard Warning for Baltimore and D.C.; Metro Public Transport Cancels Weekend Service," Sean Breslin, Jan. 21, 2016