Safe Driving During Winter Months: What You Should Know
Safe driving during Winter is important in areas where snow and ice are common. Many of us, however, tend to forget how slick the roads can get. We get in a hurry and are easily distracted as we try to make our way to our destination.
Not paying attention or neglecting to practice safe winter driving skills can lead to an auto accident. At Burton Law Group, our personal injury lawyers in Oklahoma City are able to help if you find yourself in a situation where you need legal assistance. Here are the things you should know about winter driving tips.
Don’t Rush
Don’t rush! Leave a few minutes early and take it slow. Going faster in the winter can cause you to overlook common hazards like black ice or objects on the road that may damage your car. Take your time and be aware of the road conditions.
Maintain a Safe Distance
Tailgating or driving too close to the car in front of you is a disaster waiting to happen. While you should maintain one car length for every 10 mph during normal driving conditions, it’s essential that you increase that distance during the winter.
Visibility decreases when it snows. Snow plows can also create almost white-out conditions when they are plowing. Either scenario can lead to an accident if you’re following too close.
Keep an Eye Out for Ice
Ice is more dangerous than snow when it comes to winter driving. Many times, you don’t even know it’s there until you’ve already started to slide. Black ice will make the surface of the road look wet, but when you hit it, your car will lose traction and go out of control. Always try to stay on top of the road conditions and temperature so you know when ice may be possible.
Check Your Tire Pressure Often
Check your tire pressure at least once a week to maintain the right amount of air pressure. If you aren’t sure what it’s supposed to be for your tires, talk to your mechanic. Carrying a tire pressure gauge is a good idea, and you can easily check your tire pressure while you’re filling your car with gas.
Create an Emergency Kit for Your Car
Create an emergency kit for your car. Include anything you might need if you happen to be stranded in your vehicle. A good emergency kit includes:
- Charger cords for your phone
- Flashlight and batteries
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable foods
- Flares
- Lighter
- Blankets
- A change of clothes
- A first-aid kit
- Sand/cat litter
Hopefully, you won’t need many of the things you include, but it’s better to have them and not need them. You may also want to include a tow strap and a set of good jumper cables.
Know Multiple Safe Routes
During the winter, road conditions may make it difficult to get where you are going. Know multiple safe routes that lead to your destination. This way, if your original route is blocked, you will still be able to make it to your destination. You may want to plan your routes before you leave home. Using a GPS can help, especially if it is capable of showing accidents and road closures.
Keep Your Cell Phone Fully Charged
Keep your cell phone charged at all times. If you can, buy a charging dock. This will ensure you can still charge your phone if your car battery dies.
Carry an Extra Blanket or Two
Always carry an extra blanket or two. Trying to run your car to keep warm can be dangerous. At least with an extra blanket, you can stay as warm as possible until help arrives.
Accidents can happen no matter how hard you try to avoid them in the winter. If you’ve been involved in a crash and need a reputable Oklahoma City car accident lawyer, your first phone call should be to the attorneys at Burton Law Group. Our years of experience and steadfast commitment to our clients make us the first choice of many Oklahoma City residents. Call today to schedule a consultation.