What to Do If You Get in a Car Accident During a Snowstorm

Long Island winters can be unpredictable. One moment, the roads are wet, and the next, snow and ice turn them into slick, white danger zones. Between poor visibility, sudden braking, and freezing temperatures, even the most careful drivers can find themselves in a collision. If that happens, knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Get to Safety

Take a deep breath and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If your car can move, steer it to a safe area away from traffic — a parking lot or shoulder if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and use reflective triangles or flares to make your vehicle visible in low-light conditions.

Even for minor collisions, call local authorities to have the incident officially documented. A police report helps protect you when filing insurance claims.

Example: You slide through a stop sign on icy pavement, hear a thud, and your bumper cracks. It may seem minor, but taking the right steps now prevents a simple accident from becoming a bigger headache later.

Step 2: Document the Scene Quickly

Snow and ice can quickly cover evidence. Take photos of your car, the other vehicle, the damage, and the surrounding road conditions before they change. Include close-ups of dents and wide shots that show the full scene. If witnesses stop to help, get their contact information — it can be invaluable during insurance reviews.

Exchange details with the other driver, including name, phone number, license plate number, registration information, and insurance details. These small steps now make the claims process much smoother in the long run.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company

Once everyone is safe, reach out to your insurance provider. Most offer 24/7 claims assistance. Provide the police report number, photos, and key details about the weather. Mentioning the snowstorm helps adjusters understand the circumstances of the crash.

Step 4: Choose the Right Repair Shop

New York law gives you the right to choose your own repair facility — not just the one your insurer suggests. For winter collisions, that decision matters even more. Salt, ice, and moisture can cause hidden damage that may be overlooked by cheap or rushed repairs.

Castle Collision’s Complete Collision Repair team in Westbury specializes in restoring vehicles damaged in snow and ice. Our I-CAR Gold-certified technicians utilize OEM parts and advanced diagnostics to identify hidden issues and fix your car to its pre-accident condition. Learn more about our Frame and Unibody Straightening process to see how precision repair protects your car’s structure and safety.

Step 5: Handle Towing and Paperwork Carefully

If your vehicle isn’t drivable, you’ll need a tow. Only sign a “Right to Tow” form, which authorizes transport. Avoid signing any “Right to Repair” forms at the scene until you’ve chosen a trusted shop. If your vehicle is taken to a holding yard, Castle Collision can arrange secure transport to our facility and coordinate with your insurance company.

Step 6: Schedule a Post-Accident Inspection

Even a low-speed fender bender can cause hidden problems. Moisture may reach electrical systems, sensors could shift, and rust might start beneath the surface. A professional inspection ensures your car is truly safe before heading back out into the cold.

Avoiding Winter Collisions Next Time

While you can’t control the weather, a few smart habits make winter driving safer: - Check your tire tread and pressure regularly. - Keep your windshield washer fluid topped up and wipers in good shape. - Wash off salt buildup to prevent corrosion. - Slow down — most winter accidents happen when drivers underestimate how slippery the road really is.

Castle Collision makes winter repair and recovery simple — from towing coordination to complete repairs backed by a lifetime warranty. For over 30 years, we’ve helped Long Island drivers stay safe and confident on icy roads.

Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major snowstorm crash, Castle Collision’s expert team is ready to get your car back on the road safely. Call 800-246-3368 or contact us online to schedule your inspection today.

FAQ

Can I drive my car after a snowstorm accident?

Only if it’s safe to do so. If your steering, brakes, or lights are affected, or warning lights appear, have the car inspected before driving further.

Will my insurance rates increase after a snow-related accident?

Not necessarily. It depends on your insurance policy, who was at fault, and your driving history. Reporting the accident promptly ensures accurate claim handling.

Why should I choose an experienced collision center?

Winter accidents can cause structural and sensor damage that’s easy to miss. A certified shop like Castle Collision uses manufacturer-approved repair methods and OEM parts to keep you safe on the road.