How to Prepare for Winter Driving
Winter driving brings on a whole new set of driving safety challenges. We’re going to review a couple of extra precautions that you can take with you driving this winter season. We’ll also include some tips on how to prep your vehicle for icy, snowy conditions.
In snowy conditions, there are a few things that you can look out for. Every vehicle is different, so know what to do when YOUR vehicle encounters ice. If there are cars swerving in front of you, do what you can to slow down and take an alternate route if possible. Also, when driving on the highway, or any road, leave double the amount of room in front of your vehicle as normal. Do not exceed the speed limit and stay in the far right hand lane. This will allow you to make the least amount of lane changes necessary to get where you’re going.
Prepping your vehicle for the winter roads is very important. Do a scan of the following key areas: tires, windshield wipers, defroster, brakes and fluids. Tires can loose air pressure when ambient temperatures vary, so double check your levels and check back often to ensure your tires are properly filled. Include this in as a routine when you fill up at the tank. Also, check your wiper blades. If they streak or leave large areas unclean, do yourself a favor and replace them. It’s $10 well spent. Keeping with increasing visibility, test your defroster as well. If it is not working properly take it to a shop for repair. This is one of the most commonly used features during the cold months to ensure visibility, and if it’s not working properly you might as well not drive. Lastly, check all of your fluid levels and top off as appropriate. It is especially likely you will use more windshield washer fluid in the winter due to the salt on the roads.