Driving during winter can be one of the most challenging things to do. The snow falling makes the roads slippery which may most likely cause an accident. Besides that, the driver’s visibility is reduced making it easier for an accident to occur. If you plan on driving during winter, the following are some of the helpful tips to drive your car during winter
Preparation of your vehicle
When the winter comes it is necessary to ensure that your car has a winter driving kit. The kit includes a snow shovel, sand, salt and an ice scrapper as well. One should also examine their tires to ensure that they can manage to work during this weather or they will need to be replaced with snow tires.
Other preparation measures include making sure that your tank is always full if not have at least half tank. This will help you in staying warm as you drive or wait to be rescued in case of anything. The car’s AC should also be in good working condition, the windshield wipers should also be checked to ensure they are working. The windshield fluid should also be enough to help you through the winter.
Be informed
Before hitting the road, one should be informed about the weather condition and the situation on the road. Be sure to listen to the local news which will be instrumental in giving you insights on what to expect. One can also get weather alerts on the phone to keep them updated on the places they will be driving to. Caution should be exercised when using your phone, read the alerts when you are not driving to avoid being distracted when driving.
While on the road
Before leaving the parking, one should clear the snow and ice from their car. Their mirrors, lights, trunk, hood, and windows should not have any snow. The headlights should also be on while driving. This will ensure that one can be seen by the other road users. One should be cautious especially when the snow banks limit their visibility.
It is important to note that the speed limits are meant for dry roads, not the ones filled with snow. One may want to drive slowly to ensure they do not cause an accident. One should also refrain from using the cruise control. It will be necessary that you stay in control of your vehicle during this winter time. Extra caution should be exercised in areas such as bridges and overpasses. These are the areas which are hot by snow first. It is necessary that you wear your seat belt always. If driving to a location with limited cell phone coverage one should inform a third party of where they will be going.
If one is stuck
During the winter one may end up being caught in the snow. Under this instance, one should stay in their car until help arrives. The car heater can be run to make you stay warm. This is the reason why you should have enough fuel to cater for such an emergency. The heating can be done ten minutes after every hour.…