The weather is getting colder, and that means winter storms are possible. It’s important to prepare yourself and your vehicle to prevent an accident that could cause a severe personal injury.
The following steps may help ensure your vehicle is safe to drive during the winter weather:
- Check your brakes, transmission, and tires.
- Check the condition of your battery and ignition system.
- Check radiator coolant, hoses, and belts.
- Check your antifreeze and thermostat to avoid freezing.
- Check your windshield wiper blades and de-icing washer fluid.
- Check your headlights, tail and brake lights, blinkers, and emergency flasher.
- Check your exhaust system, heater, and defroster.
- Check fuel and air filters.
- Check your oil and power steering fluids.
- Check that door locks are properly lubricated to prevent freezing.
Driving on Ice and Snow
The best tip we can give is to simply stay home when there’s dangerous weather, but sometimes that isn’t an option. If you really need to get out and travel in the ice and snow, make sure your car tires have adequate traction. According to The Tire Rack, tires require at least 6/32-inch deep tread. Another tip we can provide is not to slam on the brakes if you feel your car suddenly “floating” if you hit an ice patch. Slamming on the brakes can cause you to go into a skid. Instead, take your foot off the gas.
Getting Stuck
During treacherous winter weather, it’s easy to slide off the road and get stuck in the snow. Plan for the worst by keeping a blanket in the trunk along with supplies such as a snow brush and scraper. It’s also a good idea to have a bag of sand for traction.
We hope you find these tips useful for when you have to drive in winter weather. If you have any questions or concerns, please consult with a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer at the Heslin Law Firm. Contact us for a free consultation.