Winter is already here in the Northeast. And the cold, wet weather means that drivers should take extra precautions. Here are a few tips for safe winter driving.
1) Get a Tune-up Now
No one wants to have a breakdown on the road in the middle of winter. So take the time now to get a tune-up. You’ll feel better knowing that an expert technician checked all of your vehicle’s vital components. Fluids – including antifreeze, oil, and washer fluid – should be clean and full. A well-functioning heater is a must. Brake pads should have ample thickness. Cold weather can condense the air in your tires (and most blowouts are the result of underinflated tires), so the tire pressure is checked. Tire tread is also important for gaining traction on slick surfaces, and tires must be replaced if the tread is too low. Ramps and doors are also checked to make sure they are operating smoothly.
2) Be Prepared
Take a little time to prepare your vehicle so that you can respond to any unforeseen circumstances (like bad weather or other drivers making poor decisions) with confidence. Keep the gas tank at or above halfway – this eliminates the need for emergency pit stops in unfavorable weather. Ensure the spare tire is usable and properly inflated, and you have all the needed tools to change a tire. Tuck away emergency supplies in an easily accessible area, including a blanket, water, flashlight, gloves, snacks, cash, cellphone charger, and a First-Aid kit.
3) Drive with Extra Caution
Maintenance and preparation are good first steps, and then there’s the need to drive with added caution. Most importantly, we can all use the reminder to accelerate and stop more slowly in the snow and ice. Also leave extra space in inclement weather between your vehicle and others. And if the weather is too bad, just don’t go out until it clears.
It’s worth taking the time to check if your wheelchair accessible vehicle needs any maintenance or repairs before heading out into winter driving conditions. The team of certified technicians at Bussani Mobility is here to help. We want to make sure that you stay safe and secure on the roads in any type of weather.