Driving in the winter can be aggravating, frustrating and sometimes pretty dangerous. It’s important to not let those frustrations affect your safety on the road. Statistics show 48% of all injuries occurs in the winter and 63% of injury costs result from winter events. In most cases, ice is the most significant culprit. Checking your tires to see if they are in good condition and have enough tread can help prevent ice related accidents. Here are some tips to prevent the risks of winter driving.
- Remember to get an engine tune up sometime towards the beginning of fall. It’s key to do so far enough in advance before terrible weather starts up.
- If you are not using all season oil already, be sure to switch to winter-weight oil, also make sure your brakes are adjusted, and lights are in working order.
- Wiper blades need to be in great shape and able to clearly wipe away rain or snow. If you have doubts about their sturdiness or reliability, look into getting winter wiper blades, which are made of rubber boot that help keep rain or snow away from operable parts of the blade.
- Keep up on current weather conditions. Call 511 from your cell or landline phone before venturing on roads that may potentionally be covered in snow or ice.
- Always try to at least double your distance to build as much separation between you and other vehicles. A good rule to follow is to keep ten seconds away when driving on either ice or snow covered roads.
- Lastly, do not let your cold car run for an extended amount of time to warm it up. This could potentially harm the engine even more so it’s best to simply drive the vehicle to warm it up.
Being stranded in the middle of nowhere in your car unprepared can be detrimental to your health and usually easily prevented. Having winter car supplies with you in case of an emergency can help get you out of a bind or even save your life. Here are some things that you will need:
- Booster cables
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- 2-3 Comforter blankets for warmth
- Snow shovel and scraper with brush on one end
- The more clothing the better so be sure to have caps, mittens, coats and boots in case you have to walk for help
- Flares or reflectors
- Salt, sand or kitty litter car regain traction on ice and snow
- High calorie, non-perishable food like candy and canned nuts
- Compass
- First-aid supplies
- Lastly, an empty metal coffee tin with candles and matches
With proper preparation, driving and planning, successful car trips can be made. If you are involved in a car accident, be sure to contact the Car Accident Injury Law Center to settle your case. Don’t become a statistic this winter, be smart and take care of your vehicle. Have a safe and happy New Year from all of us at the Car Accident Injury Law Center.