The winter is one season where it is essential for all drivers to practice safe driving. Snow, hail, and sleet, can all be a serious safety hazard when driving. It is important to be prepared before the first snow storm hits in order to reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and vehicle problems.
The following are a number of tips to help you drive safely during the winter:
Prepare your Vehicle for Winter Driving: Make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter. Take your vehicle to a mechanic for a check up and tune up. It is essential to make sure that the following mechanisms and systems are in proper working order: battery, ignition system, engine, brakes, tires, heater/defroster, transmission system, radiator, oil, lights, exhaust system, wipers, belts, and hoses. All of your vehicle fluids should be filled that includes: motor oil, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze fluid, and brake fluid…etc. As well, always keep at least a half a tank of gas in the car. There are also gas line products you can purchase and add to the gas tank to keep the gas lines from freezing. Also, consider purchasing an engine block heater. The battery and voltage regulator should be checked to make sure the connections are good and there is no corrosion on the battery terminals. Winter tires are the best tires for driving in snow and icy conditions. Winter wiper blades that are covered with a rubber boot help keep ice and snow away from the blade components.
Winter Emergency Vehicle Kit: It is important to keep an emergency supply kit in the vehicle. It should include: jumper cables, snow shovel, ice scraper, flashlight and batteries, cat litter for a tire stuck on the ice, extra vehicle fluids, tire chains, ‘Call Police’ reflective sign, tow chain, blankets and high energy food, candle and matches, and first aid supplies.
Winter Maintenance: Throughout the winter, regularly check your tires air pressure as they lose pressure faster in the cold. Do not idle a cold vehicle s engine for an extended period of time as it could cause damage to the engine. After starting your vehicle, wait for the fog to clear from the inside of the windows to ensure good visibility when driving. When planning a long distance trip, plan your route ahead of time, check the weather conditions, and inform someone when you leave and when you expect to arrive. Always keep your cell phone with you.
It is important to practice safe driving habits during the winter. If you are driving in a snowstorm, drive slowly, do not tail gate, do not pass other cars, and keep your hazard lights on. As well, do not slam on the brakes when driving on icy and snowy roads. If possible, stay off the roads when there is a severe winter storm.
Every year, there are always a large number of vehicle accidents and even fatalities during the winter. One can reduce the chances of becoming a statistic by being prepared and practicing safe driving habits.
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