Winter presents unique challenges. You will experience lower temperatures, reduced visibility, snowfall, and less daylight hours. These conditions can make it dangerous to drive in. Experts recommend that you get out your snow shovels, gloves, and ice scraper before heading out on the roads.
“Don’t set off like a tank commander with a tiny hole cleared,”Andy Smith is a Canadian patrolman.
Preparing for winter driving is the best way to ensure safety. These tips will help you drive safely throughout winter.
* Surface Conditions. The roads and drive paths will likely be covered with snow, sleet, and ice. This can cause slippery driving conditions and reduce tire traction. In areas with severe winter weather, you might consider using snow tires. Also, inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear, cupping, or improper tread depth. You should also consider when the tires were last rotated, balanced, and aligned.
* Emergency Situations. Winter weather can increase the likelihood of a car accident. You should always have an emergency kit with you. Include safety items like flares and medical supplies, jumper cables or flashlights, as well as batteries and small shovels. You should also consider comfort items such as blankets and gloves.
* Clear Vision. Snow, ice and fog diminish your visibility, creating dangerous driving conditions. Before you drive, remove all debris from your windshield and windows. For a stronger wipe against heavy rain, snow, and ice buildup, replace your wiper blades by extreme-weather blades TRICO Ice(*) (wiper bladeThe contour is designed to distribute pressure evenly for a cleaner wipe. It complements new vehicle models and optimizes your sight line.www.tricoproducts.com* Vehicle Performance. To avoid hard starts, stalling, and loss of power in colder temperatures, follow the maintenance recommendations in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. You should keep your gas tank at least halfway. Condensation can damage the engine and cause it to stop working.
Some areas experience dangerous ice storms and heavy snowfall, while others see an increase in rainfall. In some cases, the temperatures might just drop a little. No matter where you live, winter brings about climate changes that every driver should be aware of.
