WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2021
As winter weather moves in, getting out becomes risky— particularly if you must drive in severe or inclement weather.
Driving during winter weather can be very dangerous, and could lead to an accident or car trouble if you’re not careful. If you have an accident, you might face higher car insurance rates. Certain accidents may even cost you your coverage.
When you’re driving in the snow, you should take extra caution. By being a defensive driver, you can anticipate and reduce your risks for accidents.
Keep these tips in mind before you head out on the road in winter weather.
Check Your Tires
If your tires are not in proper condition, they may not grip the road correctly. This increases your risks of skidding or losing control.
Check your air pressure and your tread before you leave. If your tire pressure is low, add air to improve your tire pressure. If the tread is deteriorating, you should consider replacing your tires. You should preferably do this before winter weather sets in.
Use Your Windshield Wipers
If precipitation is falling, windshield wipers are a no-brainer. You can even use your wipers if the windshield is damp and precipitation is not falling. This can help keep water from freezing on your windshield.
Use Your Lights
During most inclement weather, the law requires you to use your headlights. This is to make yourself visible to others. You should use your lights regardless of whether it is the law or not.
Do Not Speed
Inclement weather can quickly freeze to the roadways in winter conditions. It’s easy to lose control of your vehicle on frigid roadways, so make sure not to speed. It is safer to drive well under the speed limit in these conditions.
Use a Lower Gear
By using a lower gear on your car, you increase your car’s traction on the roadways and add stability to your ride. As the roads are likely slippery, better traction will help you stay on the road.
Watch Your Consistency
Don’t speed up or brake too quickly. These actions increase your risk of losing control on wet or slushy roads. Consistency is a good idea in these situations.
Stay on Safe Roads
You should only drive on roads that the proper authorities have cleared. Also, you should always use major thoroughfares that are well-lit and maintained. Roads that are not maintained pose risks to cars.
Don’t risk it. If your driveway is hazardous, it is better to park on the street. If the hill in front of your home freezes, don't drive up it. Get out and leave the car.
While there are many risks associated with abandoning your car on a roadway, the risk is lower than a wreck. If you have to abandon the car, pull well off the side of the road. Mark your car so other motorists can see it, and take all your valuables with you. Report that you have abandoned the car and be ready to dig it out as soon as you are able.
When in Doubt, Stay Home
It is always best not to drive when winter weather makes the roads hazardous. You should make every attempt to get home safely, and then stay there. Unless it is critical, stay home. Wait until freezing temperatures subside or until the authorities clear the roads before heading out.
We can help you get the resources you need to find quality car insurance coverage. Call Mark Bruns Agency at for a free car insurance quote.
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