Trust And Experience Matter

As colder weather approaches, make sure you’re driving safely

On Behalf of | Jan 8, 2021 | Personal Injury |

Over 116,800 people are injured each year in car accidents on snowy and icy roads, and over 1,300 people are killed, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Even with these shocking figures, many drivers do not even consider how to improve their driving safety in the winter months.

By simply taking a few seconds to think twice about the way that you drive in colder conditions and the equipment that you use, you may be able to avoid becoming involved in a serious accident. The following is an overview of what you can do to reduce the impact of cold, snowy, and icy weather on your road safety.

Calibrate your driving before you drive through bad weather

You should never assume the conditions of the road when cold weather has hit. Before embarking on a journey when the roads are icy, you should find a safe place, such as a quiet road or a parking lot, to test your breaks on the ground before driving onto busier roads with heavy traffic.

Maintain your vehicle

Your vehicle goes through different conditions in winter compared to summer. Therefore, ensure that your vehicle is fully maintained and that the weather has not taken a toll on any of its systems. Cold weather can cause the air pressure in tires to go down, for example. Therefore, consider checking your tire pressure on a weekly basis.

Invest in winter tires

Just as you wouldn’t wear sandals in the snow, some tires are not made to be driven across icy surfaces. Winter tires can be a great investment for increasing your safety in the winter months. They can improve traction on snow and ice greatly, making your vehicle less likely to slip.

Dealing with the changing of the seasons safely is an important aspect of being a safe driver. Make sure that you are prepared for driving safely, whatever the weather.