Last Updated on February 21, 2024 by John Robinson
With winter just around the corner, it’s time drivers prepare for treacherous road conditions. From sleet and ice to snowstorms, driving in this weather can be dangerous. Because you need to combat any icy, freezing conditions Mother Nature sends your way this holiday season, here are four fantastic tips to help you stay safe.
Whether you’re prepping for the daily commute or a vacation trip, here are several steps to winterize your vehicle:
Charge Your Battery
The freezing winds can adversely affect your battery’s power, making it less effective. Test its performance before the temperature drops!
Follow Routine Maintenance
Maintain your car to enjoy flawless performance throughout the winter season! Check your windshield wipers, antifreeze and exhaust pipe. If replacements are needed, ensure you replace before you hit the road. Consider going beyond routine maintenance and pack a snow shovel, flashlight, jumper cables and a bag of salt for emergencies.
Change Your Oil and Tires
Cold weather can cause your car’s oil to thicken, which causes blockage and poor performance. Consider using a thinner grade oil to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.
“Keep your vehicle in excellent condition,” notes the Sacramento car accident lawyer from Rosenthal Law, “If your car has brake problems, bald tires or other issues, it can increase the likelihood of a crash.” Check your tire tread and inflation prior to hitting the road.
Plan Your Whole Trip Carefully
Before you rev up the engine, check your local weather reports and traffic news. If your roads and bridges are freezing, consider postponing non-essential travel.
However, if you have to drive somewhere, create a comprehensive roadmap to avoid facing the worst of ice storms. It’s also essential to identify your arrival time, know your roads, stay notified of weather updates and let others know your route, just in case.
Use Extreme Caution When Driving
Cold weather, slippery roads, and snow call for skilled and careful driving. Failure to stay in the lane or speeding can cause your engine to choke or lead you to lose control of the vehicle.
Drive slowly on all snow-covered roads to accelerate, stop, and turn with ease! In addition, leave a little distance between other vehicles and give yourself a minimum of 10 seconds to halt. Avoid bridges and overpasses, as these areas tend to freeze first and are not exposed to sunlight. Stay alert to animals to avoid sudden stops and quick turns, which can cause collisions or spinouts.
Say No to Distractions
Your car and its tires make distinct sounds when driving on slippery and snowy roads. So, it’s particularly essential to remove distractions and keep your eyes glued to the road.
Avoid listening to the radio, using your phone, or talking on call to ensure you’re entirely focused on driving safely. Moreover, stay tuned in to the noises your tires make to respond to weather changes swiftly.
Ensure You Know Your Vehicle
Familiarize yourself with your car’s built-in features to ensure your and other driver’s safety. Most modern vehicles boast traction controls to help cars grip icy, wet, and hilly surfaces.
In addition, anti-lock braking systems allow you to combat challenging weather by restoring traction to your tires. You’ll experience a vibrating sensation once you turn on the ABS. Check your car’s manual book or visit educational sites to learn about safety features.
Winter brings snowstorms and icy, wet roads, which can wreak havoc on your car and force you to showcase your driving skills. Follow these four tips to thrive during bad weather and avoid accidents. By staying safe, you’re not only protecting your life but also of other commuters on the road. Drive responsibly!
Sources:
https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips
https://www.iii.org/article/winter-driving
https://www.safewise.com/blog/safe-driving-tips-winter-road-conditions/
https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/driving
