Winter can be a very dangerous time to drive. There are 1,836 deaths and 136,309 injuries caused by vehicle accidents in the winter every year.
Fortunately, you can avoid terrible accidents if you take the right precautions. Here are some of things that you can do to stay safe on the roads. Car accident lawyer Larry H Parker has some essential tips for driving through winter with great confidence.
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1. Get Snow Tires
You need to prepare your car for winter before the first snowstorm strikes. The most important thing that you want to do is put snow tires on.
You need to check the tread if you are using tires from a previous year. You shouldn’t drive if they have less than 5/32” for tread. Winter tires are better on snow and ice than all-season tires. One study cited by Kelly Blue Book showed that snow tires can stop 30% quicker than all-season tires, so you should pay a little extra to get them.
2. Get Winter Windshield Wiper Fluid
You should also fill your windshield washer reservoir with a winter formula and make sure your wipers are in good shape. Otherwise, the windshield wiper will freeze, and they won’t work.
3. Check Your Battery
You should also adjust your battery, because it is a lot more likely to lose efficiency when it is cold. You don’t want your battery to die when you are driving, because that can cause a serious accident on the highway.
4. Change Your Driving Habits
You obviously need to drive at slower speeds in the winter and avoid shifting or changing speeds abruptly. The National Highway Safety Association reports that 29% of traffic fatalities are caused by speeding, but that figure may be even higher in the winter. You need to accelerate, brake, and turn more gradually to avoid skidding. You should also keep a larger distance between your vehicle and others since it takes longer to stop on icy roads. Avoid using cruise control on slippery surfaces since it can reduce your ability to react when sudden changes occur.
5. Plan in Advance When Driving in Icy Conditions
Check the weather forecast before leaving, particularly if you will be driving a long distance. If possible, delay your trip if the weather is severe, such as heavy snow or freezing rain. If you must drive, let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
6. Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Car
Winter is unpredictable, so always be prepared for the unexpected. Keep an emergency kit in your car with items such as a flashlight, blankets, water, non-perishable snacks, first aid kit, and jumper cables. A small shovel, sand or kitty litter, and an ice scraper can be lifesavers if you get stuck or need to clear off your car.
7. Watch Out for Black Ice
Black ice is a major winter hazard due because it is hard to see. It usually forms on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas of the road. Be aware of these areas and drive carefully through them, particularly early in the morning or late at night when the temperatures are usually at their lowest.
8. Stay Alert While Driving
Winter driving demands your full attention. Do not use your smartphone and stay focused on the road. You should be aware of other drivers who may be struggling with the conditions.
9. Use Lights and Signals Properly
You have less visibility in the winter since there is less daylight as well as impaired visibility from snow and fog. Therefore, it is very important to use your headlights and signals correctly. Make sure your headlamps are clean and use low beams when driving in thick fog to avoid glare.
10. Brakes Maintenance
Check your brakes quite often during winter. The slushy roads make proper functionality even more important. Gently try the brakes to feel the road friction at the beginning of your trip.
Make it a Priority to Drive Safe in the Winter
Winter driving need not be hazardous if one is prepared to be cautious. These steps can help minimize the risks and keep you safe on the road. Let’s remember, the key to avoiding accidents this winter is to prepare your car, adapt your driving, and stay alert for unique seasonal hazards. Stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter from behind the wheel.
