Preparing for Dangerous Driving Conditions This Winter

Try out these winter driving safety tips.

Because winter weather creates dangerous driving conditions, it’s important that you stay vigilant and take extra precautions to protect yourself.  Not sure what you need to do to keep the roadways safe this season?  Then here are some of the winter driving safety tips that you should employ.

  • Make sure that your car is properly prepared for extreme winter driving conditions. This means repairing or replacing cracked windows, switching over to heavy-duty winter tires, filling up your engine fluids, testing your battery, and updating your car emergency kit.
  • When driving in poor conditions, you need to slow down. The posted speed limit is only applicable when conditions are clear, and temperatures are 50 degrees or higher.  If conditions are worse than this, then you should reduce your speed to keep yourself and other motorists safe.
  • When you are driving on slick roads, you need three times more stopping distance than you would if street conditions were normal. So, as you drive, make sure you are leaving a sizeable gap between your car and the car in front of you.
  • Bridges, overpasses, and shady spots are the most hazardous sections of the roadway as they are more likely to form patches of black ice. When driving through these areas, exercise particular caution and keep an eye out for signs of ice.
  • Before you set out on a drive, make sure that your windows and windshield are completely free of ice and frost. Carry an ice scraper and snow brush with you at all times so you can remove the ice and snow that accumulates while your car is parked.  Do not attempt to drive while your vision is obscured, as this will increase your chances of an accident.
  • Always carry a cell phone and a portable charger with you. This way, you can immediately call for help if you get into an accident or witness another driver getting into an accident.
  • Before driving, take a moment to inspect your tire pressure and tire tread. During the winter, your tire pressure can drop, increasing the amount of wear and tear on your tires.  If you tread is worn down, then your tires cannot get a good grip on the road, making you more likely to skid and get into an accident.
  • Make sure you turn on your headlights when driving in gloomy conditions. This ensures that you can see the roadways and also ensures that other motorists can see your vehicle.

Protect yourself and others on the road by practicing these winter driving safety tips.  Want another way to stay safe behind the wheel this winter?  Then make sure you have the right auto insurance protection in place.  For assistance with all your car coverage needs, contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers, including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.