With longer nights, temperatures dropping and snow in the forecast, it is safe to say that the winter season is in full effect. Will your vehicle be ready for the elements this season? Ensuring that your car is prepared for winter is a crucial preparation that every individual should take time to implement. Winter poses more driving hazards than any other season due to more risks when on the road.
It is essential to make sure that your car is well prepared for winter by going over a key component checklist. Doing so will help reduce potential life-threatening accidents on the road.
Ways to Prep Your Vehicle for Winter
Recalls
Checking your car's model for any recalls is a good way to learn if it may have any safety faults. A quick way to do this is by searching for your vehicle identification number within the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database to find any information regarding safety issues. If there are any, the repairs should be free and should be taken care of at the earliest convenience. This helps to avoid problems on the road in the future.
Car Service
Getting your car serviced regularly can keep you in the know for any parts that need replacement. Doing this can prevent more expensive repairs, should your vehicle unexpectedly break down on you while on the road.
Winter Accessories
Stocking your car with winter accessories, such as jumper cables, shovels, ice scrapers, flashlights and other various tools, is essential. You never know when you may run into a situation where your car's battery doesn't start or you get stuck in a snowbank. It is also a good idea to keep warm clothing such as blankets, gloves and a hat present in your vehicle for emergencies in winter. If your car were to break down on the side of the road, these items will help keep you warm until help arrives should your car not start. Always be prepared with necessary items.
Knowing Your Car
Unfortunately, many car owners never bother to read their manual that is provided when you buy your car. By doing this, you are forgoing familiarizing yourself with the safety features that are on your vehicle. Some cars have electronic stability control, while others have antilock brakes installed. Knowing these features and learning how to use them in winter conditions will benefit you in the long run.
Lights
The dashboard of your vehicle will display many icons when you first start it. Icons such as the engine light, tire pressure and windshield wipers should turn off shortly after starting your car. If not, it is crucial to get them serviced as soon as possible to diagnose the issue and prevent any further problems. It is important to also check your lights for burnt bulbs even when your dashboard light is not on. In winter, the sun sets earlier, forcing you to need your headlights more than before.
Tires
By far, the most important aspect of winter driving is ensuring you have the proper tires. Having the right tires will help to deal with slippery roads and snow. To endure the winter season without the proper tires is the equivalent of going outside in the wintertime with just a T-shirt. You can still do it, but it's not recommended. It would be best if you inspected your tires every month for tread and any possible damages. If you think your tires are going bald, it's best to replace them. You'll thank yourself later down the road, no pun intended.
Making sure your car is in top condition is one aspect of driving safely in the winter. It is your responsibility as the driver to ensure that you are staying alert while on the road. Steps you can take include, but are not limited to, not texting and driving, staying in during winter storms and navigating around snowplows. Implementing these tips can help ensure your safety during the winter. For more information and resources, visit our website and our Facebook page.
Injured in an Accident?
While winter may pose a plethora of hazardous challenges, these tips will help you navigate the winter weather, while continuing to have a safe and fun winter season. But in the unfortunate event that you or a loved one is injured this winter, please contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Hupy and Abraham for a free consultation at 800-800-5678 or start a live chat with us anytime at Hupy.com.
