Winters can get pretty harsh, specifically if you have long daily commutes to make every day. Long-distance trips are even riskier as inclement weather can affect visibility and tire grip. But going the extra mile with safety can reduce the accident risk and keep yourself and your loved ones safe, regardless of the weather challenges and road conditions. Although you cannot avert the risks completely, even small precautions can make a difference. Here are some actionable winter safety tips that motorists can rely on.
Maintain good control
The road can get slippery when it rains or snows in winter, so it is vital to maintain good control as a driver. Avoid using cruise control, no matter how convenient it is. Accelerate and decelerate slowly to control the speed over a slippery road. Maintain the following distance of at least 8-10 seconds to avoid collisions. Besides maintaining control, you must follow the usual road safety rules at all times.
Prepare your vehicle
Whether you want to drive around the block or plan a road trip in winter, your vehicle should be ready for the rigors of the season. Switch your tires with ones having a deeper, more flexible tread, and check the tire pressure frequently. Also, test your car battery because battery power drops as the temperature plummets. Ensure that the cooling system is in working order so that you can be safe if the car stops in the middle of nowhere. Maintain the gas level at half-full to avoid gas line freeze.
Beware of negligent drivers
Even the most cautious drivers can land in trouble due to someone else’s negligence. You cannot undermine the risk of being hit by a drunk, distracted, or negligent driver. Beware of the suspicious ones and maintain a safe distance from them. Experts at Quittance solicitors recommend reporting a negligent mishap and proceeding with a compensation claim sooner than later. Avoid mistakes like not seeking immediate medical treatment or failing to gather evidence.
Ensure good visibility
Another driving tip that drivers must follow during the winter season is to ensure good visibility. Installing bright markers on the windows and antenna is a good idea. You must also turn the lights on while driving through fog and rain. Keep the dome light on if you need to stop on the road due to bad weather. Ensuring that other drivers can see your vehicle on the road is the key to safety.
Check the forecasts
The worst part about the winter is that the weather can be unpredictable. You cannot assume a sunny day during a long drive only because it is pleasant and warm in the morning. A storm may be around the corner, and being on the road can get risky. Consider checking the forecasts to be on the safe side because bad weather can be extremely risky when it comes to winter driving.
Driving gets tricky during winter, but doing a little more can prevent mishaps. Follow these simple driving tips to stay safe and avoid driving on poor-weather days if possible.
These are great winter tips. Many of which should probably be followed year round rather than just in winter.
Yes, most definitely.
So important to do! I know winter driving can be frightening. I hate driving in the snow.
Me too. I’m not a fan of winter.
A lot of people could use this information. Winter driving can be so dangerous, and I feel like a lot of people are not careful enough!
Yes, I agree.
You always need to be cautious when it comes to negligent drivers. Having evidence is important. Many now have those dash cams to help give proof of fault. I bought some for my parents last year. They’re great!
My husband and I have them in all our vehicles too.
I have a friend who has a motorcycle. I’ll have to pass these along to her!
Thanks for willing to share.
Beware of negligent drivers is so important. Checking the forecasts is also key. Thanks for the great tips.
Yes, most definitely.
Winter can bring ice and snow. These are tips that one needs to follow.
Yes, definitely.
These are all great tips, and something I’ll pass on to my brother-in law. He’ll need this.
Thanks for wanting to share.
These are definitely amazing safety tips for motorists. Every motorist must consider this for the safety of their ride! Thanks!
Yes, they sure should.
These are all really great and very helpful tips. I’m gonna keep these in mind thanks for sharing this with us!
Of course! I think they are so important.
It can get very dangerous driving in winter weather. Thanks for sharing these safety tips!
Yes, it sure can.
These are great tips, too many motorists are lost due to negligent drivers and harsh weather conditions. Be safe out there!
Yes, I agree.
Awesome tips! We can never be too careful in the winter!
Right!
I think that winter can be a dangerous season for motorists and these tip will help to avoid unpleasant situations!
Yes, it sure is.
These are great tips that I have to keep in mind. Thanks for sharing these with us.
Of course!
Such great tips! It always worries me when the weather is bad but the hubs had to go somewhere.
Me too. I don’t like winter very much.
Those are some great points to keep in mind and we should be careful especially during winter where the roads are slippery.
Yes, for sure.