Throughout the year you’re going to find yourself having to drive in many different weather conditions. And, just like you wear different clothes depending on the weather and time of year, the same overall principles apply.
But, instead of adapting your wardrobe choices, for driving it means making alterations to your auto as well as adapting your driving style.
Some of these will cost you a few dollars, but most are just a question of applying a little common sense, as you’ll soon see.
Fall and Winter Driving
When the temperature drops and the weather conditions become more unsettled fall and winter present the greatest number of challenges. This especially true in states where the most extreme winter conditions occur.
The most hazardous of these is undoubtedly when the thermometer drops and there is snow and ice on the road. According to FHWA stats 150,000 crashes a year can be attributed to icy road conditions.
Without doubt, the most important single aspect to think about is the tires you have fitted to your auto if you don’t want to be one of these statistics.
If tires are worn or not inflated properly they’re not going to provide the grip that you need to stay safe. In some areas it’s even advizable to fit special heavy duty winter ones like M/T Fury tires. While they are specifically designed for muddy and off-road conditions they’re also great on snow and ice. Plus the Texas-based company behind them are also known for their affordable prices.
Rain is always going be another weather condition you’ll need to contend with in fall and winter. Again, having a good set of tires is essential and there are other things to consider too.
Having a top quality set of windshield wipers is another must to ensure that you have good visibility in even the heaviest of downpours. They’ll also see you through the whole of winter without needing to be replaced.
Fog is another hazard you’re likely to encounter. When it does descend, it’s just as important for you to be visible to other highway users as it is to see yourself. So putting on your auto’s fog light, or lights, is a must. Because these aren’t used very often it could be that a bulb has blown without you realising it. If one has they can be easily replaced – possibly even for cents if not a couple of dollars.
Of course, how you drive is also going to be a critical part of staying safe on the highway and there are a number of principles to follow.
For example, on wet and icy surfaces it’s going to take twice and ten times as long respectively to bring your auto to a halt, whatever speed you’re doing. So always hang back further than usual from the driver in front.
It’s also important to drive as smoothly as possible, avoiding sudden acceleration and braking. Another benefit of this is that you’ll save gas and be driving more economically.
Plus, something to note if you drive electric is that your overall range will be reduced in the cold as you’re likely to be using more electrical equipment like the heater, lights and wipers which will drain the battery faster.
Spring and Summer Driving
Naturally, there are far fewer aspects to consider when it comes to driving in the summer. Sure, it’s important that tires are in good condition and that all of the fluids like oil, coolant and windshield wash are topped up.
So it’s mainly about keeping you comfortable so you can concentrate. Having the air-con checked out, and repressurized if needed, is a good place to start as well as making sure the auto’s been serviced. A breakdown that leaves you sweltering in the heat is no fun at all.
Follow these principles and you won’t just enjoy cost-effective solutions. You could also have issue-free driving 365 days a year.
