Winter is right around the corner. Are you prepared? It is important to make sure you are doing everything possible to stay safe on the road in the ice and snow. As temperatures fall and snow and ice become a threat, having some safety measures in place can help ensure you are driving safely this winter.
Prepare your Car for Winter
Winter brings a lot of bad weather here in Maryland, so it is important to have your car ready for anything. One of the most important aspects of preparing your car for winter is checking the tires. If the treads on your tires are low, now is the time to have them replaced. If you are unsure about the wear on your tires, speak with a professional. Having new tires before winter can help you maintain control of your car on snow and ice.
If your tires are new, it is still important to check them frequently. When temperatures drop the air in your tired compresses, leaving the tire pressure low. Check the tire pressure frequently to make sure you don’t need to add more air. In addition to the tires, it is also a good idea to replace headlights and windshield wipers before the snow and ice of winter start.
Tips for Icy Roads
To stay as safe as possible when on the road during bad weather, there are some simple things you can do. Do not use cruise control during any wet or icy weather as your car could lose traction. If you find you are losing control of your vehicle due to a patch of snow or ice, let off the gas until you regain control of the car. Do not brake as this could make the slide worse. In addition, your following distance behind another car should be increased and try to avoid stopping if possible, as you could become stuck.
Have an Emergency Kit Ready
Should you become stuck on the side of the road during bad weather, it’s important to have an emergency kit in your car. In some cases it could take quite some time for help to arrive, so having some things in place ahead of time is a smart idea. An emergency kit should include a blanket, hat, gloves, and flashlight. Having sand or cat litter in the trunk is also wise as you can use it on the ice to help your car gain traction.
Winters in Eldersburg, MD can be unpredictable, but by following some of these safe driving tips you can make yourself as prepared as possible. Call us at Freedom Insurance Agency today to talk about your Carroll County car insurance if you are concerned about your coverage headed into winter.
