Driving in winter can be dangerous, and your chances of being injured in a snow-related car accident increase with winter weather due to reduced pavement friction, which makes it harder to maneuver your car as you would in warmer seasons.
With winter around the corner, it is the perfect time to check your vehicle and ensure you are ready for the season.
While there is no way to completely prevent an accident, decreasing your chances of being in one is possible. Make sure you check the following off your list before the holidays to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive during the cold winter months.
Car battery
It is vital to remember that car batteries do not last forever, and cold weather reduces their capacity. Low temperatures can make your car’s battery fail.
In an emergency or car accident, your car’s battery could be your only source of heat. Ensure to have a professional check your battery to make sure it is ready and that it will last all winter.
Tires
Worn tires or tires with low air pressure can put you at risk of a car accident. The reduced traction of the tires can decrease your ability to hit the brakes quickly if necessary.
Depending on your lifestyle and location, you should consider winter and snow tires, which provide additional traction when driving in the snow and ice.
If you do not have snow tires, you can also carry a set of tire chains in case of emergency, which can get you out of a precarious situation if your vehicle gets stuck due to weather conditions.
Winter wipers
Ensure you install winter wipers to prevent ice from accumulating on your vehicle’s wiper blades. Winter wipers are stronger and heavier, so while they are ideal for winter, keeping them on your car year-round can damage the wiper motor.
Winter emergency kit
Always carry a winter emergency kit inside your vehicle with the following:
- A first-aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Tool kit
- Snow shovel
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Reflective triangle
- Water and food
- Snowproof gloves
Winter is a wonderful season for some and a dreaded time for others. However, it comes regardless, and it is always best to be well prepared.
Driving during the winter months adds additional risks, so it is critical to prepare your vehicle, ensure you respect all road signs, follow traffic laws, and drive carefully in snow and ice.