If you live in an area that gets to enjoy four full seasons you will know what snow can mean for driving on the roads. More accidents happen due to ice and snow than at any other time of the year. Even with years of experience enduring winter driving, you can still get into trouble on a slippery road.
Snow-covered roads can mean problems with traction. Ice and slush can make it very difficult to stop and maneuver through traffic. Having your vehicle ready to deal with these kinds of winter issues can keep you safely on the road and out of the ditch.
Photo by Oziel Gómez from Pexels
If you get stranded or end up needing auto accident lawyers in Vancouver BC, you will be wishing that you followed these tips on how to get your car ready to face winter.
Tires
Summer or even all-season tires might not be enough to handle the tough winter roads. Winter tires are specifically designed and engineered to handle slippery roads and icy conditions.
Half the battle with driving on snow-covered roads is the loss of traction. With the right set of tires, you can be assured that your car is more likely to stay on the road.
Always make sure that all of your tires are filled to the proper pressure. Tires that are not fully inflated can lose their grip on the road and cause issues in winter weather. Make sure that your tread is thick enough to give the best traction.
Fluids
Winter temperatures and weather can be tough on all parts of your car including your engine. When the cold hits your area, it’s time to change your engine fluids.
Winter oil, premium gas, and antifreeze should all be added to your engine to help protect it. You don’t want to end up stranded with a car that won’t start once the snow starts to fly.
Emergency Kit
You should always carry an emergency kit in your car, most importantly during the winter. You never know when you could end up stuck off the road or with a dead engine. Make sure that your emergency kit has food and water to last you at least two days.
You should also make up a backpack full of necessary emergency items. Pack your bag with a wool blanket and extra clothes, including gloves. Include a small first aid kit and some candles.
Tools
If you carry the right tools with you in your car, you can get out of a lot of jams when winter hits. Make sure that you always have a snow brush handy to clear snow off so that you can see better when driving.
It’s also a good idea to make sure that your trunk has a foldable shovel, some cat litter or gravel, a bag of salt, a tire jack and a flare. You will thank yourself for having the right tools if you end up stuck on a wintery road.
Winter driving can be hazardous, even for the most experienced drivers. Before you head out onto the roads make sure that your car is stocked with everything you might need and that your engine is protected with the proper cold temperature fluids. Pump your tires up and hit the road with caution during the snowy winter season.
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