Get Ready for Wintertime Driving with These Four Tips
The ice and snow that hits the roads each winter can be dangerous, but with some advance preparation, you can help prevent an accident that could injure yourself or your family. Read on for suggestions on how to get ready for winter weather on the road, and contact a skilled Indiana motor vehicle accident lawyer if you’re involved in a winter car crash.
Prepare your car for the elements
Before driving through your first storm, make sure your car is ready by seeing that you’re driving on properly-inflated all-weather tires with sufficient tread and no cracking. Also, replace any old, cracked windshield wipers. Additionally, make sure your brake system is functioning properly, and add antifreeze to your cooling system, if needed, to prevent freezing and cracking.
Carry emergency supplies at all times
Stock your trunk with critical supplies in case you should get stuck on the side of the road. Pack an emergency kit with a blanket, hand warmers, non-perishable snacks, water, jumper cables, and a flashlight. Carry tire chains that you know how to put on your tires. Also carry sand, salt, or kitty litter to help you gain traction should you get stuck spinning your wheels in a snowbank or ditch.
Allow enough stopping distance between you and other cars
Keep in mind that it is much harder to come to a stop in snowy weather than when roads are clear, and maintain plenty of space between yourself and the car in front of you. Keep your speed limited, and if a hazard does appear in your path suddenly, try to avoid braking abruptly, as it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
Rely on momentum, not gas power, to get up hills
When hilly roads are slippery with snow, punching the accelerator to get up the hill can end up causing you to lose traction and spin your wheels. Try to gain momentum before starting up the hill instead, and use it to cruise up and over the crest. Avoid coming to a stop while on your way up the hill, as it may be difficult to start moving again.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an Indiana motor vehicle accident, find out if you’re entitled to money damages for your injuries by contacting the dedicated and effective Indianapolis personal injury lawyers at Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP for a free consultation, at 317-631-5151.
