Snow Driving… Are You Prepared?

After this weeks great snowstorm, we are thankful for the precipitation. However, with the snow comes an increased risk of dangerous road conditions. Proper preparation and prevention for winter driving weather can help keep you safe.

When the threat of cold weather approaches it’s a good idea to give your car a good checkup to make sure it is winterized for the coming weather. Purchase snow tires or aggressive tires for good traction. Make sure you have the appropriate amount of antifreeze. Check that your headlights, tail lights and defroster are in good working condition. New windshield wipers and winterized wiper fluid will help ensure your windshield will stay free of rain show and debris. For inside preparation of your car keeping some essential items. Snow chains can come in handy and are sometimes necessary. Purchase a snow shovel and kitty litter or sand for digging yourself out of a jam and giving your vehicle traction. Flares, a flashlight and a snow scraper should also be kept in your car in case an emergency situation arises. Proper visibility is essential before you even attempt to venture out in the snow. Make sure your car is clear of all the snow, including the roof.

Just because you have all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicles doesn’t make you unstoppable during winter driving. Four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive can greatly assist you to get going in snow and ice, plus provide extra control when turning. However, they won’t help you stop much faster than a front- or rear-wheel-drive car when you hit that patch of black ice.
Many experts suggest driving super-smoothly in the winter, as if though you don’t have brakes at all, since you don’t know whether you’ll have any grip for braking when you need it. If you have a 2WD vehicle it is imperative to use your chains while driving in snow, slush or ice.

It is best to use the highest precautions when driving on winter roads. When the roads are icy or snowy drive slow enough to have control of your vehicle is safest for you and other drivers. Do not stop and loose momentum while going up hill. Keep a double safe distance between you and the driver in front of you. Remember, it can take up to 10 seconds more to stop your vehicle on winter roads, so don’t ride to close and don’t slam on your brakes.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need chains please get to a safe place to put your chains on.