Winter is here, and with it comes a snowy wonderland. Although beautiful, driving in winter requires
extra care. Every snowflake that falls means we need to be more careful on the roads, looking out for
ourselves and everyone around us. We’ll share tips on how to drive safely so you can avoid accidents
and stay injury-free.

Prepare Your Vehicle

To ensure a safe journey, it’s crucial to make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. Here’s a checklist to get
your vehicle geared up for the harsh conditions:
Winter Tires: Before hitting the winter roads, equip your vehicle with winter tires. These specialized
tires are designed to grip snow and ice, providing better handling, and allowing for quicker braking.
Tire Pressure Check: Cold weather can cause the air in your tires to contract, leading to reduced tire
pressure. Make sure your tires have enough air to maintain proper pressure. Well-inflated tires offer
better grip and handling on icy roads.
Battery Inspection: Ensure your battery is in good condition to avoid unexpected breakdowns in the
cold.
Wiper Blades: Install new wiper blades for improved visibility during snowy and slushy conditions.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Swap out your regular washer fluid for an antifreeze variety. This helps
prevent the fluid from freezing on your windshield, ensuring clear visibility as you drive through winter
weather.

Don’t Rely on Cruise Control

When driving in snowy conditions, it’s crucial to stay in control of your vehicle. Avoid using cruise control
as it hinders your ability to quickly respond to changing road conditions. If your vehicle skids while on
cruise control, it may continue accelerating, making it harder to regain control. Keeping manual control
allows you to react promptly to surprises and navigate slippery roads more effectively.

Anticipating Black Ice

Spotting black ice on the road can be challenging due to its nearly transparent nature. Instead of relying
on visual cues, focus on anticipating potential areas where black ice might form. Keep an eye on bridges,
as the wind blowing underneath can make these surfaces cooler than the road, increasing the likelihood
of ice formation. Be particularly cautious during the early morning and nighttime, as these are times
when temperatures often dip below freezing, leading to the development of icy patches.

Keep Your Distance and Slow Down

In slippery road conditions, your car’s traction decreases, and the distance it takes to come to a stop
increases, even with winter tires. If you must make a sudden stop, you’ll need more space than usual. To
stay safe, maintain a greater distance between your car and the one in front of you when driving in
challenging conditions. Remember that speed limits are designed for normal road conditions, so it’s
essential to adjust your speed accordingly when the roads are slippery.

Remove Snow from Your Vehicle Before Driving

Snow on your car or truck not only limits your visibility but can also pose risks to others when it blows
off onto their vehicles. Running late? It’s still important to take a moment to clear the snow and scrape
off the ice before hitting the road. Prioritize safety by keeping a brush and scraper in your car for quick
and easy access.

Check the Weather Often

Before you drive, check the weather forecast. If a big snowstorm is coming, try to avoid driving if you
can. It’s better to stay home during a storm, even if it feels like a small hassle… Being in a serious
accident is a far greater hassle. Keep it simple: if the weather is bad, it’s safer to stay home.

If you’ve been in a car accident, talk to a lawyer right away to make sure you get the compensation you
deserve. Several factors can affect your ability to make a successful claim, so it’s crucial to get expert
and trustworthy legal advice. Don’t wait—consult Zuber Brioux promptly to understand your rights and
options.