Winter driving conditions are dangerous. Sub-zero temperatures, falling snow, drifting snow, sleet and snow all add to the dangers of winter travel in different ways. Being prepared and anticipating the potential hazards of operating a motor vehicle in adverse weather can be the difference between safety and loss.
Making sure your car is in top condition during the winter months will help keep you and your passengers’ safe when traveling in cold and snowy weather. In addition to taking high security measures, it is recommended to contact a vehicle shipping company to safely transport your vehicle, meanwhile you along with your family reach the destination by air.
Thing You Need To Check for Winter Drive
The following items must be inspected and maintained during winter travel:
- Antifreeze
- Batteries and brakes
- Frost protection and heating
- Emission system
- Fully inflated spare
- Belts and hoses
- Lights
- Spark Plug
- Snow tires, tire pressure, tread
- Windscreen wipers and windshield washer fluid.
10 Driving Tips for Cold and Snowy Conditions
The best way to stay safe during inclement weather is to avoid driving. If you must drive in extreme winter conditions, make sure you’re properly prepared, plan your route, and let others know your intentions. Keep the following guidelines in mind when driving in cold weather:
1. Warm it up and clean it
If your car has been in the cold for any length of time, it should be warmed up before driving. Use this time to thoroughly remove any snow that has accumulated. Driving with snow or ice on any of your windows is dangerous. When a car is in motion, snow on the hood or roof can blow into the glass, obscuring the driver’s view. Make sure all exterior windows, lights, mirrors and sensors are clear of ice and snow.
2. Seat Belts
That’s correct. Wearing seat belts has been shown to reduce the risk of fatal injury in a car crash by about 50%. Because of this, many countries have made it mandatory to wear seat belts while driving or riding in a car. This regulation has contributed to reducing the number of road fatalities and has helped to save many lives.
3. Plan Ahead
Don’t rely solely on your GPS to get you to your destination. Know your route and have a contingency plan in case the weather forces you to change it. Always check traffic and road conditions before traveling.
4. Weather Forecasters
Although they are often wrong, meteorologists and weather forecasters know more about the coming weather than you do and can at least provide a general idea of temperature and precipitation fluctuations.
5. Distracted Driving
It is almost difficult to encourage drivers not to use mobile technology while driving. Winter driving conditions reduce the necessary reaction time, making it even more dangerous to look at a cell phone or tablet while driving.
6. Phone and Charger
Although it is extremely unsafe to use a mobile device while driving, especially in bad weather, make sure your phone is fully charged and you have it with you if necessary. There are means of recharging. You can save battery life by using your mobile device only in emergencies.
7. No Cruise or Parking Brake
In extreme weather conditions, it is strongly advised to avoid using cruise control and parking brake.
8. Keep Gas Tank Fill
During extreme cold and snow, it is very important not to let your gas tank run too low. Keeping your gas tank at least half full prevents condensation and extends engine run time in the event of an emergency.
9. Icy Slip
Intersections, bridges and ramps are more sensitive to icy conditions than other roads. Observe active winter warning signs and signals and proceed with caution over, under, or over these areas.
10. Emergency Survival Kit:
Here is a list of items that are typically included in a winter emergency survival kit for a car:
- Blankets or sleeping bags for warmth
- High-calorie non-perishable food, such as protein bars
- Bottled water or other hydrating drinks
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Multi-tool or knife
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Road flares or warning triangles
- Tire chains or traction mats
- Small shovel for digging out of snow
- Warm clothing, such as gloves, hats, and boots
- Candles and matches or a lighter for starting a fire
- Whistle to signal for help
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive and the specific items in your emergency kit should be tailored to your individual needs and the climate where you’ll be traveling.
What to do if you get stuck or blacked out?
Even if you anticipate and respond appropriately to the obstacles and potential hazards of driving in cold and snowy conditions, you can still get blocked or stuck. The first step in such situations is to maintain courage. Then, follow some basic standards for your safety and the safety of your fellow travelers.
1. Don’t Leave the Vehicle
The temptation is to get out of your vehicle and seek help or shelter. According to experts, this is a poor decision. Stay with your vehicle and avoid overexertion.
2. Attract Attention
Turn on your warning or flashing lights. Hang brightly colored cloth or plastic strips from your car’s antenna or windows to warn onlookers. Leave the interior light on to attract the attention of a potential rescuer, but watch your battery power!
3. Avoid Asphyxiation
Do not leave your stranded vehicle with the windows down for long periods of time. If you need to use the engine to warm up or to charge a device, make sure the exhaust pipe is free of ice and other debris.
4. Eat, drink, and Stay Warm
Eating and drinking from your emergency kit can help you maintain your strength and stamina and prevent hypothermia. Remember that too many blankets and clothes are not enough when you need them.
Conclusion
Before winter sets in, get your vehicle inspected to prepare for mild weather damage. This will allow you to make sure everything is working at peak efficiency and handle any potential problems before they escalate. You may always take help from the best car shipping company in US to travel in any season.