Winter driving is very difficult and very dangerous. With the cold, uncomfortable weather, blinding snowstorms and icy roads, winter is the easiest time to get into an accident or get stranded in a snowstorm. Here are some safety tips that can help you while driving during the winter.
Make sure that your vehicle is ready for winter driving.
You should get some winter tires because they will help when driving in winter weather. Also, make sure that you’ve take your vehicle to your local dealership for winter maintenance.
You should always carry a snow brush, jumper cables, a small shovel and a flashlight. When you are ready, make sure your windows and mirrors are clear of snow before you leave.
Don’t tailgate.
Tailgating is much worse in the winter because stopping takes longer in the icy conditions, so keep a distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Drive slowly and smoothly
Driving fast is one of the highest causes of winter collisions. You are not in summer any more and the ice can cause you to lose control. Don’t make abrupt turns, slow down before a turn.
Don’t use cruise control
You should never use cruise control in winter conditions, you could easily lose control.
You should learn to control skids.
When skidding, you should turn into the skid and accelerate, this will transfer the weight from the front to the back and help you get control.
Keep your lights on so you can clearly see other people.
You should know how to properly use your vehicles brake system. If you have ABS, your foot should remain firmly on the brake petal when braking.
Keep your gas tank full, don’t let it get below half. If you ever get stuck in a snowstorm at least you will have heating.
Pay attention.
Everything is going to be harder to do in winter conditions so make sure you think before you act and pay attention to the road and don’t use your cell phone or try to eat a big mac while driving, especially in the winter.
Even while applying these tips it is still very dangerous to drive in the winter and you should minimize your driving. If you have to go buy something just write it down and wait to buy several things at once so you have less time on the road.
You should also be careful not to have your radio too high or not to multitask while driving, especially in winter because any moment may be your last if you don’t pay attention.
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