January 12, 2016 | Car Accidents
This winter we have not seen any blizzards, but you never know how quickly the weather can change and how a little bit of snow can make it very difficult to drive. Please take some of the following precautions when driving in the snow or ice to stay safe this winter and to keep others around you safe. Inflate your tires or get new ones are the beginning of the winter season, this will give you better tread, and you won’t be stuck filling up a poorly inflated tire in freezing weather. Always make sure your gas tank is at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up. Do not use cruise control while driving on any slippery surface whether it is snow, ice, or water.
If you’re planning on taking a long distance trip this winter, you should make sure you are prepared for anything that could possibly happen. Always delay your trip if very bad weather is expected, if you must leave, let people know your route, time of arrival, and any stops you plan on making. If you become snow bound, do not leave your vehicle, it will provide temporary shelter. Never try to walk somewhere it can become very difficult to see in blowing snow and you can lose your car. Always pack extra clothes, food, water, blankets than you think you might need. Tie a bright piece of fabric or clothing to your antenna to signal distress, at night keep the dome light on, if possible. Always, always double check the exhaust pipe to make sure it is not clogged with snow. This could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak inside the car.
If you must drive in heavy snow, please drive more cautiously than you think you should. Accelerate and decelerate slowly, this helps to gain traction and from your tires slipping. Stay far behind other cars, keep at least 8-10 seconds behind them. Know your brakes, and how long it will take you to stop, the best way to stop is to keep your heel on the floor and use the top of your foot to press firmly on the brake. Don’t stop if you can avoid it, try to avoid hills these can be very scary and tricky to get over in ice.
If you can help it, stay home if weather conditions are not ideal for driving. Even if you are an expert in driving in the snow, not everyone else on the road is. Play it safe and do not get out in bad weather if you don’t absolutely have to.
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