10 Things To Remember: Winter Driving Edition
There are so many things about winter that make driving more dangerous and difficult. The roads become more icy, there’s heavy rain and snow and slush, not to mention the way the cold affects your vehicle. Luckily, there are things you can do to prepare yourself fully for the winter months ahead. Follow these 10 tips to ensure that you and your vehicle get to your destination safely.
- Get The Right Tires
All season tires do not hold up in winter driving conditions, especially at high speeds. If you live in an area that gets any snow at all during the winter months, you’ll want to invest in winter tires to remain safe on the road.
- Keep Your Lights On
Driving with your headlights on can help you navigate during heavy snow, even during the day. Make sure that your lights are working properly and test out your high beams before getting on the road.
- Drive More Slowly
Driving in slippery conditions doubles your chance of getting into a collision with another automobile. During the winter, slow down, and avoid making sharp turns. You never know when you’ll encounter a patch of black ice.
- Always Carry A Cellphone
Even if you’re just running a quick errand, take your cell phone with you just in case your vehicle breaks down.
- Keep Warm While Driving
Never go out without proper winter attire, even if you’re going straight into your car. You never know when your car will break down and you’ll be stuck waiting for assistance without heating. Keep extra blankets in the car just in case.
- Have Emergency Salt or Sand Available
Even vehicles with snow tires get stuck sometimes, and salt can help you get out of a tight spot by quickly melting the snow. You can find this salt or sand at any hardware store.
- Watch Where You Park
Certain roads are okay to park in during the summer, but are off limits in the winter due to snow ploughs. Double check your regular parking locations and make sure you can still legally park there.
- Have A Safety Kit Ready
Having a safety kit in your vehicle is crucial for your winter safety. They can be bought ready made, and aren’t that expensive. Your kit should include jumper cables, an ice scraper, backup batteries, blankets, flares, non-perishable food items, and warm clothes.
- Don’t Go Out In Heavy Weather Conditions
If the weather looks really bad, stay in if you can. Even if your vehicle is ready for tough conditions, it’s likely that other drivers won’t be this cautious, and you may still be at risk for a collision.
- Update Your Insurance Policy
It’s important to talk to your insurance company and find out what is required for coverage during the winter months. Talk to your representative and delve into what would make your car safe for the winter, and find out if you can receive a discount for taking precautions, like having winter tires. If your provider isn’t giving you the policy you need at the price you want, compare your auto insurance policy to others on the market to get the best price for your vehicle.
Author: Jacob Maslow