10 Winter Driving Safety Tips

Winter weather poses added risks to drivers who are commuting in their vehicles. Not only are vehicles more susceptible to breakdown when the temperatures outside drop, but harsh weather conditions also increase the risk of an accident. Stay safe when driving during the winter with the 10 tips below.

1: Slow Down

If it is raining, sleeting, snowing, or hailing, or if these weather elements already fill the road, it's necessary that you slow your vehicle down and prepare for slippery conditions, harder braking, and other potential risks. Give yourself plenty of time when leaving so you don't feel the need to rush.

2: Inspect the Car

Inspect the car before you leave to go out. A quick look around the car can reveal potential trouble that could leave you stranded on the side of the road. Look at the tires, check the oil, and look for leaks. Schedule routine maintenance each year for further protection.

3: Prepare the Car

Don’t take off in winter weather before the car is ready to go. Give the vehicle time to defrost and be sure to remove snow, ice, etc. from the windshield, windows, etc. Not only can you earn yourself a ticket if you attempt to drive your vehicle in such conditions, but it also increases the risk of being involved in an auto accident.

4: Winter Weather Kit

Stock your vehicle with a winter weather kit that helps you better prepare for emergency situations that we don’t plan for. Being prepared can make a tremendous difference in your comfort and safety. Pack blankets, a flashlight, bottled water, hand warmers, gloves, and other items that can protect you from the harsh elements until help arrives.

5: Stay Alert

It is important to stay alert when you’re behind the wheel of an automobile, but when the weather outside is frightful, it is even more important that you’re paying close attention to the road and to other drivers on the road. Practice defensive driving to better protects yourself.

6: Follow the Rules

Speed limits are in place for a reason. So are no passing zone signs, hazardous condition signs, and others. Pay attention to the signs and follow all of the rules on the road to protect yourself and other drivers.

7: Drive Sober

Never get behind the wheel of a car to drive if you’ve consumed alcohol or drugs, even those prescribed by your doctor! Not only do you put your own life at risk, but the lives of pedestrians and other drivers. Stay safe and stay sober if you plan to drive.

8: Purchase Insurance

Auto insurance won’t protect you from an accident, but if the inevitable does occur, the coverage provides financial protection that you need. Don't assume that auto insurance is too expensive and illegally drive without it when a few comparisons will yield numerous cheap insurance companies and policies to choose from.

9: Drive Alert

Don’t drive the car when you are sleepy or tired. Make sure you drive only when you are well-rested and refreshed. If you feel yourself getting tired while driving, don’t assume you are okay and pull over to the side of the road.

10: Choose the Best Driving Route

Although you may be accustomed to driving one way to your destination, winter weather may require you to use an alternate route to stay safe. Know alternate routes from your home to your destination and be prepared to use them when it is necessary.

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Created on Jan 23rd 2019 11:21. Viewed 1,827 times.

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Jen McDade   Environmental - Health & Safety For Driving Safety, you can check out Aware360"idriveaware" app to evaluate your driving performance. Jan 23rd 2019 22:50 1 Likes