Take Precautions for Winter Driving

Reliable transportation is essential in the winter.  It is especially important to keep your vehicle in top operating condition to avoid dangerous situations while traveling in cold, inclement weather. Preparing your vehicle for the winter season and taking proper precautions are the keys to safe winter driving.

Preparing your vehicle for winter driving

• Winterize your vehicle - Check with a mechanic to make sure brakes, wipers, defroster and heater are working properly.
• Fill antifreeze and wiper fluids to the proper levels.
• Make sure tires are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.
• Equip your car with proper materials you may need in the event of an emergency (blankets, food, water, flashlight, ice scraper, cell phone and extra clothing).
• Keep your gas tank full.  You may use more gas while traveling due to necessary route changes during a bad storm.
  
  

• Clear snow and ice from the hood, roof, all windows and all lights before driving.  Be sure to keep your headlights on in snowy conditions.
• Start early and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
• Brake carefully and early.  It takes more time to stop in adverse conditions.
• Look farther ahead in traffic than normal. Actions of other drivers’ vehicles will alert you to problems and give you the extra time to safely react.
• Stay with your vehicle if it stalls and try to stay warm.  Be alert to any possible exhaust or carbon monoxide problems.

Learn more

• Safety in your vehicle
• COUNTRY Financial auto insurance solutions
• Contact me to learn how an auto accident could affect your financial security