Stay safe on the roadways this winter.
Due to snow, sleet, black ice, and freezing temperatures, winter is considered the most dangerous time of year for drivers. This is especially true if you live in a state where winter weather conditions are particularly nasty. If you know that you will soon be battling heavy snowfall, icy streets, and bitter cold, then here are some of the safety precautions that you should take.
- Make sure that your car is properly prepared for extreme winter driving conditions. This means repairing or replacing cracked windows, switching over to heavy-duty winter tires, filling up your engine fluids, testing your battery, and updating your car emergency kit.
- When driving in poor conditions, you need to slow down. The posted speed limit is only applicable when conditions are clear, and temperatures are 50 degrees or higher. If conditions are worse than this, then you should reduce your speed to keep yourself and other motorists safe.
- When you are driving on slick roads, you need three times more stopping distance than you would if street conditions were normal. So, as you drive, make sure you are leaving a sizeable gap between your car and the car in front of you.
- Bridges, overpasses, and shady spots are the most hazardous sections of the roadway as they are more likely to form patches of black ice. When driving through these areas, exercise particular caution and keep an eye out for signs of ice.
- Before you set out on a drive, make sure that your windows and windshield are completely free of ice and frost. Carry an ice scraper and snow brush with you at all times so you can remove ice and snow that accumulates while your car is parked. Do not attempt to drive while your vision is obscured, as this will increase your chances of an accident.
These are some of the suggestions that you should employ to drive safely this winter. Want another way to protect yourself on the roadways this season? If so, then secure the right auto insurance. For assistance with all your car coverage needs, contact the experts at Scavone Insurance Agency Center LLC in White Plains, New York today.
