Snow makes roads slippery and hazardous. Blowing snow impairs your vision as you drive. Slippery roads and impaired vision often lead to accidents.
Here are a few tips to help keep you safer on the roads during the harsh winter weather and help you avoid costly accidents and painful injuries.
1. Prepare for each trip
Clear ice and snow from all windows, lights and window wipers every time you drive. Always keep your gas tank at least half full in cold weather. Leave extra time so that you can avoid speeding on slick roads.
2. Regularly check your tires and battery
Extremely cold temperatures can affect tire pressure. Check your tire pressure and tire tread, and look for damage regularly, to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive. Batteries can also be negatively affected by harsh cold weather. Have your battery checked by a mechanic before winter weather sets in to ensure your battery is in good enough condition to handle the cold weather. Check it regularly as winter progresses.
3. Be prepared for an emergency
Keep your cell phone fully charged when you are driving so that you can call for help when needed. If you do need to call for help, stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Do not attempt to walk through cold temperatures and hazardous conditions. Turn on your hazard lights and make your vehicle as visible as possible in the snow. Save your battery and gas and only run your car for short amounts of time to keep warm.
Waiting for help in cold temperatures can be scary and uncomfortable. Keep emergency blankets and extra hats and gloves in your car during the winter months to help keep you warm until help arrives.