When temperatures drop, road conditions become substantially more perilous. Ice, slush, and snow all become a handful for drivers, resulting in serious accidents. Stay safe this winter by preparing your car for inclement weather and taking the proper safety precautions before you hit the road. Doing so can make a difference in ensuring you safely reach your destination.
Gearing Up for Winter Weather
The holiday season may be over, but winter is still here. Preparing your vehicle for inclement weather is vital for your safety. We compiled a list of tips that will help ensure you are not ill-prepared for the road ahead, regardless of the conditions.
Stay prepared this winter with these helpful tips:
- Check your battery. It should be charged and working optimally, especially since cold weather has a tendency to negatively impact battery performance.
- Always keep your gas tank full. If your tank is low on gas and stormy weather leads to traffic delays, you might have to turn back. Moreover, having a fuller gas tank will prevent the car’s gas line from freezing.
- Consider changing your oil and your oil filter. During cold weather, the oil in your car thickens, so you might need a thinner grade of oil to help things run more smoothly.
- Check to see if your windshield wiper fluid has anti-freeze in it. Otherwise, regular fluid might freeze during cold weather. You should also consider purchasing winter wiper blades.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car, complete with a first aid kit, blankets, bottles of water, non-perishable snacks, and a flashlight.
You should also consider these driving tips:
- Stopping and accelerating take more time on icy or snowy roads, so drive slowly and carefully.
- Make sure you have plenty of time to reach your destination. You do not want to be in a hurry on the road during inclement weather conditions.
- Keep more distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you. If you tailgate, you will not have enough time to stop completely, especially when the weather is poor.
- While planning your trip, make sure you also monitor weather conditions. Hold off on going out if the roads are too hazardous.
- Fully charge your cell phone before you head out and keep a charger in your car. You might need to make a phone call if you get stuck or have an emergency.
Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today!
If you sustained injuries in a motor vehicle accident caused by negligence, contact the knowledgeable team at the Law Offices of James A. Welcome for the legal representation you need to get through this difficult time. Our attorney has the experience, passion, and insight to help you obtain the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life. We understand how challenging life can be in the aftermath of a severe accident, especially once the medical bills begin piling up. You should not have to bear this burden on your own. We can help.
Contact our law office today at (203) 806-7922 to set up an initial consultation and discuss the details of your personal injury case.