It’s no secret that winter is a dangerous time for driving. The icy roads, darker evenings and cold weather can all make driving more difficult – leading to accidents. While it’s important to stay cautious on the road at any time of year, it’s particularly important at this time of year. Take a look at these essential driving safety tips for safer travels this winter.
Get your car checked over
In addition to your regular car inspections, you should get your car booked in for a winter service. This will help make that all of your car’s essentials such as your lights, breaks and wipers and steering are all in working order. If something doesn’t feel or sound right with your vehicle, check for warning signs that your engine is in trouble and make sure you get them seen to. It’s a small price to pay to make sure everything is in good shape versus the cost of an accident.
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Slow it down
It’s startling to know that more than 116,000 Americans are injured on the road in winter every year. Slushy, icy conditions can make driving more hazardous, while snow can affect your vision. It’s important to show caution when driving, and under no circumstances should you have your pedal to the floor. When the weather starts to turn, reduce your speed – it will be much easier to stop on an icy road at a slow speed than a fast one.
Pack an emergency kit
If the worst were to happen and you were to have an accident, break down or be forced to leave your car, an emergency kit could save your life. Make sure you pack your car with several essentials should you ever need them. These include a blanket, warm/waterproof clothing, a torch, water and food, a portable phone charger and medical supplies. Keep your kit safe in the back of your car and remember to replenish any items that you use.
Watch out for other drivers
You could be the safest driver on the road, but you can’t guarantee that others will show the same behavior. Be wary of other drivers by using your lights correctly and signalling so that they know you’re around. Drive calmly near dangerous drivers and don’t engage in any threatening behavior. If you find yourself in an accident caused by another driver, get legal help at http://www.gillandchamas.com/practice-areas/automobile-accidents/, who are experts in automobile accidents. Write all of the relevant details down and make sure you visit your doctor to get medical proof of any injuries sustained – this will help your case for compensation.
Winter driving doesn’t have to be dangerous. With the right precautions, there’s no reason why you can’t drive safely on the road. Concerned about how safely you drive? Check out this article: https://theautomotivereview.com/are-you-driving-as-safely-as-you-could/ and see if there are tips you can learn to improve your driving. Make your holidays a happy one by driving safely on the roads this winter.
