Winter weather can be both gorgeous and dangerous all at the same time. Any time you plan on being out on the road during this time of year you should take precautions to help ensure that you and your passengers stay safe and sound. Besides using a good degree of common sense and planning ahead of time, there are other things you can do to help reduce the likelihood of an accident.

The following list has been designed so that you will have the tips and tools that you need to help stay safe and keep from having to submit an auto claim.

Preparing for Winter Weather Before It Arrives

  • One step that should always be taken before the weather turns bad involves having a mechanic perform a multi-point check to ensure that your battery is functioning properly and that all your fluids (oil, transmission, windshield washer, antifreeze, and brake) are at their proper levels. Your brakes should also be checked for wear as should your exhaust. It also certainly pays to ensure that your heating system is up to par.
  • Keep your tank as full as possible. This will help you keep from running out in the event that you end up stuck in a jam.
  • Snow tires, snow chains, all weather radials or such should be installed as soon as the law in your area allows.
  • Keep an emergency kit on hand in your vehicle. It should include a small camp shovel, booster cables, tool kit, blankets, towrope, flashlight, extra batteries, flares, and a first aid kit. If you live in an area that gets a great deal of snow, then you should also consider carrying a set of dry clothes and waterproof matches for melting snow into drinking water.

Winter Driving

  • By backing into your driveway you can make it much easier and safer to pull out onto the street especially if there is ice present.
  • Give yourself a decent turn radius when rounding curves. By turning too tightly you run the risk of going into a spin.
  • Anti-lock brakes can be engaged by slamming on them once you start a skid. If you do not have anti-lock brakes though pumping them will help to give you a greater deal of control.
  • While jogging can be great for your health, it can be downright deadly when done in the ice and snow. Keep an eye out for joggers during winter weather. There will always be those die hard individuals who will head out no matter what the weather.

If you must travel during severe weather make sure you follow these tips as well:

Never travel alone. Having someone with you can make all the difference if you happen to get stuck. Also, let someone know when you plan to arrive as well as your chosen travel route.

If you get stuck make sure you stay in the vehicle until help arrives. Run the engine and heater as little as possible. Make sure that you get out and clear your exhaust pipe of snow. This will allow your car to properly ventilate so that carbon monoxide will not build up in the cabin since doing so could end up poisoning you and your passengers.