Navigating Winter Roads Safely

Winter weather driving can be harrowing. It is something that not a small number of people avoid altogether. Not only is it dangerous to drive over slippery roads, but you have to watch out for other drivers sharing the road with you. Defensive driving may not be enough to keep you safe this winter as you slip and slide over icy roads. Use these tips to help enhance your chances of making it to your destination safely.

Warming Up the Car

One of the first things that people do in the winter is warm up their car. While there is nothing wrong with getting your car ready to go, you should never do it in a closed garage. If you are going to warm up your car, make sure that you do it outside.

Tired Driving

You need to be on high alert when you are driving down winter roads. If you feel like you are too tired to drive, don’t. Fatigued driving is distracted driving. If you would rather be taking a nap than driving down the road, wait until you feel awake and alert before taking off.

Gas

Your father may have told you that you need at least a quarter of a tank of gas in the winter. The updated wisdom is that your gas tank should be at least half full. This will help to prevent your gas tank from freezing up, and it will help to ensure that you have enough gas if you get stranded.

Stay Off Cruise

If you are one of those drivers who enjoys using cruise control whenever you are driving down a long stretch of highway, try to kick the habit for the winter. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. It allows you to not pay attention like you should to your speed, which can be detrimental on roads with ever-changing conditions.

Tires

If you can afford winter tires, they are a good idea. Not everyone can afford a second set of tires for a few months out of the year, which is understandable. At the very least, make sure that your tires are inflated to the proper pressure, and do not mix radials with any other types of tire.

If you are involved in a car accident in North Carolina, call our offices as soon as possible. Our team is here to help you, and we will provide a case evaluation to you at no charge. Call now for assistance.