Winter Driving Safety Tips

As we find ourselves approaching the inevitable winter months, we know that that snow and ice will come along with them. Driving conditions can become more difficult when the snow hits the ground and whether during that early morning commute or the rush hour drive home in the dark, we all have to be more aware of the road conditions we find ourselves in. Drivers should remember to follow safe driving procedures every time they set out in their car because we all know that it just takes a slight miscalculation for an accident to occur. 

To help you get into the spirit of the season safely, here are a few Winter Safety Driving Tips:

• Be prepared and make sure your car is ready for essential winter maintenance
• Top up your windshield washer fluid and ensure your windshield wipers are in good working order
• Check your battery condition
• Store emergency items such as a scraper, a flashlight, a small shovel, a blanket, and an extra layer of clothing in case you get stuck and are waiting for help
• Before you head out each day, clear all car windows, mirrors, and roof of snow and frost

Be alert and anticipate! When conditions are dangerous, and visibility is low:

• Be extra cautious
• Stay alert and more watchful during bad weather
• Drive with confidence and know your next move
• Expect what other drivers may do around you

Winter tires are a wise investment

• Winter tires are designed with cold weather in mind. They are built to stay supple in temperatures well below freezing. This translates to better braking and gripping on snowy, icy roads.

Driving in winter weather is so much more challenging than in summer:

• Drive at a slower pace
• Do not follow to closely to the car ahead of you
• Always leave yourself more time and space to slow down and turn
• Avoid sudden moves as much as possible
• If you have anti-lock brakes, apply constant pressure rather than pump the breaks – the system will do the rest.

Stay cool, calm and in control:

• Unless roads are dry, it is best not to set the cruise control.
• Under icy, snowy, or wet conditions, you want to have complete control of the car rather than automatically accelerate the system.

Gluckstein Lawyers is a strong supporter of injury prevention, especially on our roads and we wish everyone a safe winter season.