Winter is upon us here in Tennessee and in recent weeks we have seen snow and ice in several parts of the state. We likely have a couple more months of cold temperatures and a likelihood of more snowstorms ahead of us this winter. It is important to understand how to stay safe while driving on snow-covered and icy roads.
Road Safety in the Winter Requires Some Careful Planning
Should there be a winter storm bringing heavy snow or even ice with it, your best plan is to lay low and avoid driving. However, we know that is not always possible depending on your line of work or your family’s needs so we have gathered a few winter driving safety tips you should keep in mind during the cold weather months.
· Have your car inspected at the beginning of the season to make sure it’s in proper working order – check everything from engine fluids to your tires and your windshield.
· Check the weather on your route before hitting the road. Delay your trip if the weather is expected to be bad.
· Keep some emergency gear in your car at all times including water, non-perishable food items, a flashlight, additional layers of warm clothing, blankets, a glass scraper, and important medications. This can save lives if you get stuck on a road or highway for an extended period because of an accident ahead of you.
· Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread – check this at the beginning of the season and again a few times throughout.
· The fuel tank should always be at least half full at all times during the winter.
· Do NOT warm up your car in an enclosed area, like a garage or shed – carbon monoxide is odorless but extremely dangerous.
· Avoid using cruise control while driving on slippery, icy roads.
· Drive slower on snow-covered and icy roads than you normally might drive.
· Slowly accelerate and decelerate to avoid slipping and sliding. Allow extra time to slow down and come to a full stop.
· Increase your following distance to allow the extra time to stop when you need to.
· Use extra caution when going up a hill or down a hill to ensure you can maintain control of your vehicle.
The key to staying safe during the winter months is to ensure your vehicle is functioning at its best while adding in some additional safety precautions. As you know, the winter months often bring an increased number of car accidents. At Auto Glass Service, we cannot stress staying off the roads enough to keep your family as safe as possible but should you need to drive during a winter storm, keep these tips in mind.
The best defense against harm on the roads this winter is a safe, well-maintained car and safe driving habits. If your vehicle has any auto glass damage this winter, call Tennessee’s go-to source for auto glass repairs and replacements, Auto Glass Service.