Driving during the wintertime when snow and ice hazards are high can be a nerve wracking and dangerous experience. Fortunately, there are things motorists can do to increase their safety and decrease their chances of adding to accident statistics.
The reality is wintertime driving does call for extra vigilance, special supplies and preparation. It is important to not only understand the rules of the road for icy conditions, but also to properly prepare a vehicle for driving in bad weather. When the following tips are taken to heart, drivers can help lessen the treachery involved with hitting the road when conditions are less than favorable.
Preparing A Car For Bad Weather
Before driving in winter weather, it is important to properly prepare a vehicle for what might lie ahead. Doing the following things can help ensure that a car will start and carry its passengers where they need to go:
- Full tune up – This is an important task to undertake in the fall. This is the time, for example, to use a winter-weight oil, check the brakes, battery and fluids. The better prepared a vehicle is for the winter weather, the better.
- Wiper blade change – Having windshield wipers that work properly is imperative for driving in winter weather. It’s a good idea to use special winter blades to handle the snow that may be encountered.
- Prepare an emergency kit – Cars should be properly supplied with items that can come in handy during an emergency. Beyond the standard first-aid kit, be sure to stock such things as a window scraper, snow shovel, tire chains, flashlight, jumper cables, flares, signaling cloth, blankets, emergency food items, extra clothes and so on. These items may never be needed, but they can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
What To Do If You Get Stuck
Getting stuck in the snow and ice is a common hazard in the wintertime. To get out, try these things:
- Shifting the wheels – Turn a vehicle’s wheels from side to side to push a buildup of snow out of the way. Use only a light touch on the gas pedal and try to inch forward. Make sure not to spin the wheels.
Rocking – If a vehicle can handle this, switching from drive to reverse time and again can push a vehicle free.
Tips For The Stranded
Sometimes vehicles get stuck and they won’t come out. When this happens, drivers should try to keep a level head. It is important to:
- Set up flares or other signaling devices.
- Stay in or near the car; wandering can be dangerous.
- Use the car’s heat sparingly.
- Keep a window cracked to stop the car from becoming sealed.
- Call for help if possible. It is a good idea to have a cell phone on hand for emergencies such as this.
Driving Tips For Winter Weather
When driving in bad weather is a must, make sure to use commonsense behind the wheel. Obey speed limits or drive slower if the conditions demand. Don’t follow other vehicles too closely. Keep the proper distance or more maintained at all times. Also, if skids happen, remember to avoid braking hard. It is best to remove the foot from the gas pedal and pump the brakes slowly.
Winter driving does present its share of challenges. To get where you need to go safely, it is important to prepare for the weather and full the rules of the road.
