Severe winter can be quite dangerous and frightening for travelers. Following research conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, bad weather, winter storms, and slippery road conditions are a prominent factor and a leading cause of almost half a million car crashes and over two thousand road deaths in the colder months. Thus, the drivers need to be aware of the safety rules to be better prepared for emergencies, which may come your way during the winters. Here, in this article, we will talk about some winter safety tips that you need to bear in mind to maintain adequate safety during winter driving.
Winterize your vehicle
The first and the most vital tip you need to bear in mind for driving in colder climates is winterizing the car. Now, what does it mean by winterizing your vehicle? You need to ensure that your car is updated with the fuel, brakes, and fluid for winter driving. We would recommend that you keep the fuel tank at least fifty percent full during the winters, especially when you set out on a long trip. Further, do ensure that you get an oil change not so long ago. Lastly, be mindful of the other fluids in the car before getting on the road in winters.
If it is not urgent, do not step out
To stay safe during the winters, we would recommend you to drive only if it is really urgent. As much as possible, avoid it. Why do you want to indulge yourself in the risk of going through the harsh winter conditions? However, hunkering down is not an ideal situation. If you must drive in extreme weather conditions, ensure that you and your car are ready to take on the challenges, which the road will present to you.
Ensure that the tires are inflated properly
How would you like if you are stranded in the middle of the road with a flat tire? We know you will hate it. So, especially when you hit the road during chilly weather conditions, check the tires. All the tires should be inflated. Please bear in mind as the temperature goes down, the tire pressure does fluctuate.
Do not overlook your vehicle maintenance
Regardless of whether you are heading out for your everyday commute or going out on a family trip, it would help if you stayed on top of your car maintenance at all times. It will particularly be important in the winters to ensure your safety.
You can commence with necessary checkpoints, such as the anti-freeze levels and the oil levels. Further, it should be your routine habit to top off the gas whenever it reaches the halfway marking. In this manner, you will save yourself from the challenge of being stranded on the road full of snow.
Slow down
If the snow begins to accumulate around your car, please slow down. It is not only crucial for your safety but also the protection of others on the road. When the road is covered with snow, you can never be sure what might be up ahead. What if there is a huge pothole or a patch of black ice in your way? So, be slow, and keep the headlights on.
Check the brakes
Whenever you take your car for an oil change, you should simultaneously get a brake check done. If, at times, you hear a squeaking noise anytime you press onto the brake pedal, you should take your car in without delay.
The brakes of the car require continuous maintenance upkeep. See, when you are driving in winters, the roads are slippery, and that is when your brakes are your saving grace. The brakes will ensure that you have adequate control of your vehicle, regardless of the challenging weather conditions outside. Always practice steady braking. It will ensure that you have enough time in hand before getting closer to a stop or a light sign.
In case a slippery patch hits you on the road, the ideal way to keep yourself safe would be to slow down and release the accelerator, and downshift before you hit the brakes. As you step onto the brakes, you need to apply a slow, steady, but firm pressure. It will prevent your wheels from locking up. In case you feel the drop in the brake pedal or grinding as the pedal pumps by itself, it could be because the ABS brakes are likely kicking in. So, focus on the steering and keep your foot on the pedal firmly.
Accelerate and decelerate gradually
Zac, an educator who offers java homework help, services says the best winter safety driving tip he got from his father is to accelerate and decelerate gradually. If you mash your foot down on the brake or the gas while driving on a snowy road, it can make you lose traction. Consequently, you might end up losing your control. So, stay calm, and be careful as you accelerate and then press onto the brake slowly. It will guard you against getting involved in any road accident.
What To Do In A Winter Car Accident
Winter can be a dangerous time of year to drive. With the roads becoming slick and icy. This can put you at risk of getting into a car accident. And it can be challenging to know what to do first in an accident. The first and most important thing to do is to make sure everyone is safe. If nobody is injured and the cars are still driveable, move the vehicles to a safe spot. Then exchange insurance information. If there’s any property damage, take photos for your records.
If there are any injuries, even minor ones, seek medical attention right away. It’s also important to contact the police and report the accident. Once you’ve taken care of your immediate needs, you should get a car accident lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and ensure you are properly compensated for your losses.
It’s essential to act quickly when involved in a car accident in the winter. As the weather can worsen rapidly and cause further issues. Follow these steps to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe and receive the compensation you deserve.
So, these, are a few of the most important tips that you need to bear in mind before stepping out on a winter road. Also, never step out of your home without hearing the weather report during the winters. Stay safe!
