Snowfall can be refreshing and beautiful, as long as you are viewing from the warmth of your home. But, snow can also pose a danger to drivers on the road. Taking certain precautions can help you stay safe on the road this winter. These tips will help you when driving in winter conditions in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Check the Weather Before Leaving
Running late can lead you to skip important winter preventive duties, like removing the ice from your windshield or checking your tires. Also, you are more likely to speed if you’re running late. Check the weather a few hours before leaving or at least the night before. That way, you know if you need to leave early and can give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. If the weather is very bad, it might be better to just stay home. Some winter roads should be avoided if they have not yet been cleared or if the rain has recently turned to ice.
Schedule a Preventive Maintenance Appointment
Taking good care of your vehicle year round is important, but skipping your preventive maintenance during the winter months can be even more dangerous. Before winter weather hits, schedule a maintenance appointment with your dealership. During this appointment, your technician will inspect your tires, check your fluid levels, and recommend any other repairs. In addition to ensuring that your vehicle is ready for winter driving, some preventive maintenance can also reduce your chances of breaking down and being stranded in the cold weather.
Pack an Emergency Kit
If you do end up stranded on the side of the road, you will likely find an emergency kit to be useful. Include items like a first aid kit, an extra phone battery, water bottles, and even an extra set of clothing. In addition to having an emergency kit, it can also be helpful to have your emergency documents in an easy-to-locate place. This includes your insurance information and a copy of your roadside assistance card if you have one.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions can be dangerous regardless of the road conditions, but distractions in addition to winter driving can be especially risky. If the roads are bad, make sure you take extra precautions to avoid distracted driving. If your vehicle is equipped with hands-free features, be sure to take advantage of them. Sync your phone to the driver infotainment system before leaving the driveway. If you don’t have a hands-free system, then consider putting your phone in a location that won’t tempt you to answer phone calls or text messages.
It can also be helpful to teach children the importance of having no distractions, and avoid looking or reaching into the backseat. Make sure you have everything you need in front of you before leaving your home.
Winter driving can be dangerous, especially following a snowstorm. Taking certain steps to avoid the most common risks, like checking the weather before leaving and scheduling a preventive maintenance appointment before winter arrives, can help you practice safer winter driving. It is also a good idea to plan for emergencies.
Image by Hans Braxmeier from Pixabay | CC BY 0
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