It is less than a month before winter starts officially, but some parts of the U.S. are already experiencing a significant amount of snowfall since fall. Every driver needs to be prepared when driving in snow and ice. Committing the simplest mistake while driving in ice is much worse than in a dry summer road. Let us discuss what preparations every driver can do to be prepared for that safe journey on the wet and icy roads of winter.
Winterize Your Car If Possible and Check Your Fluids
Most mechanics and service shops now can winterize your car. Do this and have all your vital fluids such as coolant, battery and brake fluids checked and not the car is not having any leak. Make sure that your wipers and ice scrapers are in good shape as these are commonly forgotten items in the car. Always check that your gas is enough whenever you go for a drive as it will be one of your worst nightmares to run out of gas in the middle of nowhere in a snowy stormy night.
Use The Correct Tires
A lot of drivers and car owners neglect their tires and go for the cheaper all around tires. Yes, all around tires are built to withstand the forces of nature year round, but these tires do not offer the same grip that your car needs on an icy or snowy road. This will, of course, depend on where you are located. If your location gets a lot of snow, then invest on snow tires, if not, then it is safe to go with your all-seasons, buy a good set and not the cheap ones. Remember that your tires are the only things that keep your car safely on the ground, make sure that your threads are also not worn out.
Take Your Time To Know The Weather And Techniques
Check the weather before leaving your driveway; it would be much safer and convenient if you know which routes would be best for your trip. Make it a habit to know if the weather would permit a safe drive or if you should just let the day pass and go to wherever you need to go on a sunnier day. In case that you get caught in bad weather, learn the techniques needed to survive. Keep your distance from other drivers, your brakes may be on their tiptop condition, but you may not have the necessary grip to put the car to a complete stop when necessary. Learn how to properly accelerate and decelerate to optimize your car's traction.
Charge Your Cellphones And Know Who To Call
If you get stranded, you cannot assume that other drivers will help you. They might fear that helping you will put them in the same situation. Other drivers may not be qualified to help too so make sure that you have your cell phones directory loaded with the correct emergency numbers for the area. Conduct a research for towing services, since you never know when you might need them. Some areas might not have a hotline so inspect and research before you even go on that long trip.
The winter season may be hazardous, but let us not forget that it also comes with the holidays. A season that should be well spent with your family and loved ones at the comfort of your warm homes, and not out in the freezing cold street.
