We expect the driving conditions to worsen as the season changes to winter. Just like the first few flakes of a snowstorm start building up, so is traffic. Avoiding the road during winter is a good idea. But if you live in an area where winter weather is full of snow and ice, avoiding using the road can be unrealistic.
It will be helpful to winterize your car before winter strikes. Plan a maintenance check-up for the car's tires, battery, brakes, radiator, oil, lights, wipers, belts and hoses. Ensure the tires have the correct pressure before hitting the road during winter.
Here are additional tips to help you drive safely during winter
Ensure you have a Survival Kit
Your car should have your survival kit all the time, but ensure you have it readily during winter. The kit should contain gloves,
- Booster cables
- Mall shovel
- First aid kit
- Water bottles
- Windshield wiper fluid
- First aid kit
- Torch
- Snowbrush
- Candles
- Safety vest
- Non-perishable energy foods.
Check the Weather and Road Conditions Regularly
Select the route you will use ahead of time and learn about its weather conditions. The prior inquiry will help you know what to expect and prepare adequately.
Maintain a Safe Distance behind the Snow Blows
Ensure you keep a reasonable safe distance if you find yourself behind a snow plow. The drivers of the snowplow vehicles do not have the best visibility, so they are likely to create clouds of snow that can affect your visibility too.
Buy Winter Tires for your Car
Besides giving your car better traction, winter tires ease handling and braking. The tires can shorten your braking distance by as much as 25%. All-season tires are not similar to the winter tires because they lose grip when temperatures go lower than 7 C.
Clean Ice and Snow from your Car
Ensure you clean all mirrors, windows, lights, and roofs. Wait for the fog to clear before you drive off for clear visibility.
Avoid using the Cruise Control when driving on a Slippery Road
You are likely to lose control of your vehicle during bad weather if you depend on cruise control. Avoid driving totally if the weather conditions are unbearable. A severe storm or blizzard can cost your life.
Getting Started
Driving Conditions such as rain and snow affect your car's braking distance immensely. It is therefore essential to drive carefully during winter. Do not try stretching long miles during winter; if possible, stay at home to evade fatal accidents.
If you need to winterize your vehicle, bring your car into Griffin Muffler & Brake Center LLC today!