Southampton winters are often filled with cold temperatures, snowy days, and icy roads. While a lot of people look forward to snowy days, it can create difficulties for drivers trying to traverse more dangerous roads.
Anyone who’s driven on icy or snow-covered roads knows how stressful it can be and how easy it is to become involved in an accident, or to get stuck in the snow. The key to winter safety is being prepared. Remember these winter driving safety tips as the weather starts to change.
Don’t Neglect Winter Car Care
The first of the winter safety driving tips is to have an inspection done before the colder temps and snow creep in. Check your snow tires to make sure there is good tread left and they have good air pressure.
Check all of the fluids to make sure they are clean and full. Have the oil and transmission fluid checked and changed, if necessary. Switch out your normal windshield washer fluid for one designed to melt ice and resist freezing. Make sure that the battery is still good, the spark plugs are in good shape, and the brakes have sufficient padding.
Build a Car Emergency Kit for the Winter
Don’t overlook this winter driving safety tip. If you have a breakdown or an accident during the snowy winter months, a kit can be a lifesaver.
Make a kit to keep in your car that contains emergency supplies.
- Blanket
- Flashlight
- Matches
- Water
- Non-perishable snacks
The idea is to pack supplies to keep yourself warm and comfortable in case you have to wait for a ride or for a tow truck to come pull you out of a ditch or snow bank. The next step is to pack supplies in your truck to help get yourself out of a situation if your car should get stuck in the snow.
The following are good things to have on hand to dig around your tires or put under your tires to get them off of the ice and give them extra traction.
- A small shovel
- Bag of sand
- Large pieces of cardboard
Winter Driving Safety Tips for Navigating the Winter Roads
Finally, winter safety driving tips should also include how to safely maneuver your vehicle. The goal, after all, is to avoid an accident or getting stuck in the snow in the first place. By carefully navigating the winter roads, you have a better chance of safely arriving at your destination.
Start by driving slowly. Keep an eye on wet patches of the road, which could be black ice. By keeping your speed low, you will be better able to stop when you need to and avoid hitting oncoming cars that are out of control.
Concentrate on steering when driving through winter weather. Don’t make any sudden turns. Lay off the brake when approaching a stop or turn to avoid hitting the brake pedal too fast or hard. If the car starts to slide, turn the wheel to go with the car, rather than madly trying to get it to go the other way, which could cause a spin out.
Also, stay far back from the other vehicles on the road. It may be difficult to stop if someone stops in front of you, cuts you off, or has a spin out. Also refrain from pumping the brake, most cars now come with antilock brakes anyway. Take each motion slowly and deliberately to keep you, your passengers, and your car safe.
Get Help if You’re in an Accident in Southampton This Winter
If, despite following these winter driving safety tips, you happen to be involved in an accident in Southampton this winter because of somebody else’s reckless actions, call Cordisco & Saile LLC to handle your personal injury case. We can advise you on what action you may be able to take. Call us now at 215-642-2335 or use our online contact form to set up your consultation.
