Slick roadways, Ice-encrusted windshields, Limited visibility from snowfall : If you are living in country with 4 seasons, you might face this kind of problem during winter time. These are why many cringe at the thought of winder driving.
“Even experienced drivers can find their nerves and skills tested when the snow starts to fall and ice forms on the roads. Winter driving conditions can be treacherous.” said Dawn Duffy
Jamie Anderson of Minnetonka, a suburb of Minneapolis, knows that firsthand. Last year, he hit a patch of ice and slid off the road while heading north on Interstate 35 during a snowstorm.
“It was snowing at the time and visibility wasn’t great, so I was driving well below the speed limit with my windshield wipers going. I had seen other cars spin out a few miles back, but never thought it would happen to me.” Anderson said.
Anderson got lucky he was able to get out; but Duffy advises all winter drivers need to have emergency supplies on hand just in case they get stuck in winter. These supplies should include a cell phone, flashlight with extra batteries, blankets, sleeping bags, matches, extra set of mittens, canned fruits and nuts, bottle opener, water, sack of sand, shovel and first aid kit.
Even if you are driving very carefully, the accidents can still happen. Regardless of what happen, the safety tips for winter driving mentioned below might be useful for you:
- Clear all snow and ice from windows, roof, hood, trunk, mirrors, lights and signals before leaving your drive way.
- Once in transit, observe all speed limits and reduce speed whenever road conditions or visibility are compromised by foul weather. Keep in mind, speed limits posted are for ideal driving conditions. Slow down when driving in inclement weather.
- When roads are slippery or we, avoid sudden starts, stops and hard turns.
- Turn on headlights in the late afternoon before the sun begins to set to improve visibility.
- Anticipate potential danger on the road (such as icy bridges, snow-covered lane markings or stalled cars) by decreasing speed, increasing the distance between the vehicle in front of you or changing lanes to avoid trouble.
- Refill your windshield wiper reservoir and replace your windshield wipers.
- Replace car blades as well before winter with a set of ANCO Premium Winter Blades, which are designed with a rugged rubber cover over a heavy-duty frame for strength against extreme weather conditions.
If you are planning for a longer trips or vacation, make sure people know where you are going, when you plan to get there and what route you will be taking just in case something go wrong. Drive carefully, will you.
{ 0 comments… add one now }