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Driving in Snow Tips

Winter Safety – Driving in Snow Tips

In some places, Winter means dangerous driving conditions. Snow, sleet, hail, wind and icy conditions can lead to accidents, injuries and damage to your vehicle. When you hit the road this Winter, be prepared. Make sure that you put safety first. Be responsible and cautious when you are driving and be sure to follow these Driving in Snow Tips.

1. You may be ready for Winter, but is your vehicle? Have it checked by a professional to be sure that everything is safe and can handle all Winter driving conditions.
2. Check that your windshield wipers and window defrosters are working properly.
3. Have your tires inspected and replaced if necessary.
4. Drive a little slower than usual and keep a good distance between yourself and the car in front of you in case you need to stop quickly.
5. If you begin to skid, steer into the skid, with your feet off the pedals until you gain control of the car.
6. Leave early if you have to be somewhere at a certain time. You want to allow yourself time to get there and not have to rush causing you to be less cautious while you are driving.
7. Always keep an Emergency Car Safety Kit in the trunk. This will have things like a flashlight, bottled water, snow scraper, emergency blanket, first aid kit, hand warmers, jumper cables, etc. I would even suggest a jump starter especially if you live in an area with frequent low temperatures.
8. Have a plan in place in case you end up in an emergency situation. Let someone know where you are going, the route you are taking and when they should expect to hear from you next.
9. When buckling a child into a car seat make sure their coat is not too thick. It can interfere with the harness on the seat. Instead, take off their coat, buckle them in and then cover them with a blanket and keep the heat on at least until the car warms up enough to be comfortable.
10. Always wear your seat belt, even if you are driving around the corner. Better safe than sorry.
11. Keep your gas tank as close to full as possible so the nightmare of getting stranded without gas on a dark, snow covered road never becomes a reality.
12. Avoid using cruise control on a wet, icy, or slippery road. You want to keep as much control of the vehicle as possible.
13. If you don’t have somewhere that you really need to be, stay off the road. If you have somewhere to be, but don’t feel comfortable driving, consider an alternative route. Don’t force yourself to drive in conditions you don’t feel comfortable or safe in.

Always remember, no matter your destination, the most important part of any journey is your safe arrival. Put safety first at all times, especially in bad weather. When the temperature drops, and it rains or snows, the roads will become icy and can be dangerous. Follow the rules of the road and our Winter Driving in Snow Tips to keep yourself and other drivers and passengers safe.

 

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