Winter is slowly approaching, and when seasons change, so do your driving conditions. Whether it’s heavy snow or icy roads, these winter tips can help you stay safe!
Keep At Least Half of Your Gas Tank Full At All Times:
It’s good practice to keep at least half of your gas tank full during the winter months. Condensation can form in the empty areas of your gas tank and during cold temperatures, the condensation can freeze and prevent your vehicle from starting. Additionally, not having enough gas in the tank can compromise your safety/warmth if you get stuck in heavy traffic or become stranded in the snow.
Avoid Using Cruise Control:
When the roads get slick with ice, rain, or snow, it’s better to avoid using cruise control and rely on your own senses. It’s important to get a feel for the road and control your speed manually.
Invest in Winter Tires:
Winter tires are designed with special features that significantly improve performance in heavy snowfall, black ice, and slippery terrain. Some of the key benefits of winter tires include:
- Increased flexibility, allowing for better grip
- Improved traction with tread designed to push snow away from vehicle
- Better steering, accelerating, and braking
- Reduced risk of hydroplaning
Check Your Tire Pressure:
Colder temperatures can change your tire pressure and drop them to dangerous levels. Keep an eye out for any signs of deflation in your tires so that they aren’t at risk of blowouts or reduced performance.
Avoid Dangerous Roads:
If the roads around you are bad in the summer/spring time, then they’ll be even more hazardous during the winter months. Roads that are underdeveloped, full of potholes, or have steep hills/turns can be even more challenging to maneuver in the snow, rain, or ice. It’s better to stay on roads that are well-maintained and are frequently visited by snow plows.