The best advice for staying safe on the roads this winter is to use your head and common sense. When driving, make sure to use caution, especially if the roads are ice or snow covered. The winter weather conditions can change rapidly, so make sure to stay alert to the weather. Allow extra time to reach your destination incase you encounter poor weather or roads. It is also recommended to leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you. This way you can help be prepared if you have to brake or stop suddenly. It can also help decrease the chance for an accident to occur.
Make sure the lights are working properly
Visibility is important when you are driving. This can be accomplished by keeping the headlights clean and free of any snow or ice build-up. If there is snow, sleet, or rain in the air, this can cause a decrease in visibility, even if it is daylight out. Clean and functioning headlights are not just important for you, but also for others. This way you can help to have others see where you are at as well. Also make sure that the lights are adjusted properly. If they are pointed in the wrong direction, make sure to bring your vehicle in as soon as possible so we can align them properly.
The battery should be inspected regularly
The battery may start to drain and fail in the winter. This is because the colder temperatures can do damage to the battery. It causes the battery to not operate at full efficiency. Also inspect the battery to make sure the cables and terminals are in good condition. They should be free of any corrosion, rust, or debris build-up. If you notice that the vehicle is slow or hard to start, make sure to bring the vehicle in as soon as you can.
Make sure the vehicle is ready for cold temperatures
The vehicle should also be inspected to make sure that the antifreeze and other fluids are at the level they should be at. This can be determined the reservoir of each of the fluids. Also make sure the windshield washer fluid is up to the designated amount. It is also recommended to keep a container of fluid in the trunk of your vehicle as well. The windshield wipers should also be inspected. If there are any rips or tears, make sure to replace the wipers as soon as you can. With the snow, sleet, and rain of winter, you will want to make sure the wipers are effective at removing it from the windshield. This can also help to improve the visibility as you drive.
Inspect all the tires regularly
The tires should be inspected for the condition they are in. Make sure they are free of any bulges or blisters. Also check the air pressure of the tires. If you are unsure of what the pressure should be, you can find it in the vehicle owner’s manual. The proper amount can also be found on the inside of the driver’s door. You can also bring the tires in and we can inspect them for you. This way you can help to have a safe and reliable ride again.
