Winter Driving Tips: Advice to Help Drivers Avoid Accidents

Winter brings ice and snow, along with biting cold temperatures. These factors alone are difficult, but winter driving may be the most challenging aspect of winter. Winter also brings a higher possibility of a car accident. Below we’ve compiled some winter driving safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

It is important to consider all aspects of winter driving safety before heading out into the cold. Always remember to check weather conditions before driving. Check the car to make sure it is ready for winter driving.

Make sure the tires are properly inflated. Tires can lose pressure in cold weather, and inadequate tire pressure can contribute to accidents. Check all the fluid levels. One simple way to do this is to take the car in for an oil change at a service provider where all fluid levels are checked and filled as part of the service.

Have the brakes, ignition, and the heating and cooling system checked out. Batteries lose some of their power in cold weather, so check the battery as well.

Just as important as preparing your car for winter is preparing a winter weather kit for the car. Some of the items this kit should contain are blankets, warm gloves and hats, first aid and medical supplies, booster cables, a flashlight, sand or cat litter for traction, and plenty of high-energy snacks. Carry tire chains if they are required in any state you plan to visit.

When you are driving, stay alert, slow down, and keep plenty of distance between you and the other vehicles on the road. Most accidents in the winter are caused by driving at speeds higher than the conditions permit and by distracted drivers. If your car starts to slide, slowly let up on the accelerator and turn the car in the direction you want it to go.

Always look at where you want to go on the road. When you need to stop, apply easy, constant pressure on the brake. If your vehicle does not have anti-lock brakes, you may need to pump the brakes a bit to stop. If you are stopped somewhere, whether in traffic or with a car problem, stay in the car!

Call for help, and make sure if you leave the car running that the exhaust is clear of snow. Have a wonderful winter by staying safe on the road.