Winter driving can be challenging, especially if you're not prepared or new to winter driving. Snow, ice, and cold temperatures can all make for hazardous road conditions, so it's important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety on the road. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for winter driving:
- Check your vehicle: Before the winter weather arrives, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. This includes checking the brakes, tires, battery, antifreeze, and wiper blades. Also, make sure you have a full tank of gas and an emergency kit in case you get stranded. This is extremely important!
- Slow down: Snow and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, so it's important to slow down and give yourself plenty of time to react to changing road conditions.
- Increase your following distance: It's important to leave more space between you and the car in front of you when driving in snowy or icy conditions. This will give you more time to react if the car in front of you brakes suddenly or if you need to make an emergency maneuver.
- Use your lights: Make sure your headlights and taillights are on when driving in poor visibility. This will help other drivers see you and give you a better view of the road.
- Avoid sudden movements: Sudden movements, like sudden braking or sharp turns, can cause you to lose control of your vehicle on slippery roads. Instead, make slow, controlled movements to help maintain traction.
- Know how to handle a skid: If your vehicle starts to skid, remain calm and take your foot off the gas. Steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go, and don't brake until you have regained control of the vehicle.
If you need assistance getting your vehicle ready for winter, we invite you to bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today!