Winter Weather Driving – Important Safety Tips

When it comes to winter driving in snow, ice, sleet, freezing rain and other treacherous conditions, it is important to be prepared and use a variety of safety tips to ensure a safe and successful driving experience.

First, get a tune up. Make sure your hoses, belts, wires and pumps are functioning properly before winter weather arrives. Next, check your battery and your coolant levels. Antifreeze is an important component that will protect your vehicle from frigid winter temperatures. Other safety tips for winter driving include checking your windshield wipers and making sure your gas tank is full. Also, make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full and keep an extra gallon in your trunk. Next, if you have a real wheel drive vehicle, put sandbags or a similar weighted item in the back to help increase the traction of the rear wheels in the snow. You may also want to consider adding a block heater to your vehicle. This small engine heater will guarantee that your engine starts quickly on a cold morning and provide instant heat when you start your vehicle.

Other safety tips include making sure your vehicle, windows, mirrors and headlights are clear of snow and ice before hitting the road, which is now a law in most states. Properly functioning defrosters are also a must for winter driving. Get to know your car and how it handles in snow, ice and other winter weather conditions. You may also want to consider investing in snow tires. Regardless of your tire choice, check your tire pressure and make sure it is at an appropriate level. Carry emergency supplies in case you get stranded or stuck in the snow, such as a shovel, sand and a cell phone to call for help.

Next, keep tire chains in your trunk so you have them if you need them, and make sure you know how to put them on correctly. You may also want to consider tire siping as well. Drive slowly and keep plenty of distance between your vehicle and other drivers on the road. When you are ready to purchase a new vehicle, choose one with a variety of safety features that can help you maneuver during winter driving, such as anti lock brakes and vehicle stability control. Finally, the most important safety tip is to master the art of driving in treacherous winter weather. Practice in a large, empty parking lot or other spacious area before hitting the road.