SeasonalTips

How To Stay Safe On The Roads This Winter

How To Stay Safe On the Roads This Winter

Driving during the winter months can be difficult, especially when it’s cold and there’s snow or ice on the ground which is why you should take extra precautions. It’s important to make sure your vehicle is fully working before setting off on any journey to avoid breaking down on the side of the road. The last thing you want is to be stranded roadside in the middle of winter. To avoid a scenario like this, you should always be prepared when going anywhere in your car. In this post, we are going to look at tips on how you can stay safe on the roads this upcoming winter.

Check your vehicle before you leave

Before you set about your journey, be sure to check that your vehicle is working properly. Check your battery, as cold and wet weather can be bad for it, and check your brakes too. Antifreeze stops the water in the engine’s fueling system from freezing so check the coolant levels when the engine is cold. Check the tread on your tires and if possible, consider switching to winter tires during bad weather. Snow can build up on your vehicle’s headlights so make sure you clean these before driving off and ensure the bulbs are all working.

Plan your route ahead

Planning your journey can often make all the difference. Knowing which roads to avoid due to bad weather can help you choose a safer route. Use online maps to find out where traffic is busier and where accident spots are. Driving in snow is dangerous, no matter how much of an experienced driver you may be. Take extra care if you choose to drive in snowy or icy road conditions. If you do have an accident on the road this winter, speak to a car accident lawyer who will be able to deal with the insurance company on your behalf.

Pack emergency supplies

In case of an emergency, you should always have a case of supplies with you so you are fully prepared. These items include jumper cables, blankets, a torch, and spare batteries, a first aid kit, de-icer and scraper, food and drink (ideally hot drinks in a flask) a fully charged cell phone, and an empty fuel can. Hopefully, you won’t need to use these emergency items but it’s better to have them with you.

Reduce your speed

When driving in uncertain conditions such as wet roads, it’s advised to reduce your speed by about a third, and in snow-packed roads, it’s recommended to reduce the speed by half. If the road is icy or you don’t feel in control of the vehicle, pull over immediately and wait until the weather conditions have improved and you feel safer to continue driving.

If you find yourself driving in snowy or icy conditions this winter, remember to take extra care and carry out the necessary checks on your vehicle before setting off. Try to always be prepared for any type of weather condition by planning ahead and packing emergency items.

Photo by Kent DuFault

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Jess Benoit

Jess is a homeschooling mama of 3, wife, gamer, Whovian, Nerd

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