Winter driving tips are important because driving conditions during the winter months can be significantly more dangerous than during other times of the year.
Snow, ice, and sleet can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, making it more difficult to control a vehicle and avoid accidents. Additionally, cold temperatures can cause car batteries to fail and tires to lose pressure, which can also lead to accidents. Knowing how to safely navigate these conditions through tips such as proper tire pressure, using winter tires or using snow chains, and leaving extra space between vehicles can help drivers avoid accidents and arrive at their destination safely.
Here are 10 tips for driving during winter months.
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained, with proper tire pressure and tread depth, a full tank of gas, and fully charged battery
- Slow down and increase your following distance, as it takes longer to stop on slippery roads
- Use your headlights and turn signals, and avoid using high beams on snowy or icy roads
- Watch out for black ice, which is often invisible on the road surface
- Keep a winter emergency kit in your car, including blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, a small shovel, and some non-perishable food
- Avoid sudden movements, such as sudden braking, accelerating or turning, as they can cause you to lose control of your vehicle
- Use the recommended type of oil for your car during winter months
- Keep windows clear of snow and ice for better visibility
- Plan your trip and check weather forecast and road conditions before you leave
- If you start to slide, take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Avoid braking, as this can cause the wheels to lock up and make the slide worse
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