Ut can be particularly stressful and hazardous when you drive during winter. The combination of ice, snow and strong winds could represent risks during long distance trips. When the winter arrives, you should make sure that you are properly prepared. You should inspect the car so it will be ready fr the icy road conditions. It would be really helpful if you bring the car to a qualified mechanic to make sure that it is fully prepared for winter driving. The mechanic will check all components of the car, including the defrosters, heater, oil, lights, exhaust systems, antifreeze, ignition system, brakes, thermostat, wiper fluid and battery. It is important to make sure that tires are fully prepared for slippery road that is covered with ice.
If you plan to do long-distance trips, there are items that you need to prepare inside your car, such as small shovel, small broom, ice scraper, flashlight with spare batteries, thick sleeping bag, first aid kit, warning triangles, flares, jumper cables, extra hat, extra gloves, extra jacket, water, food and power bank for charging smartphones. These items are essential if your route includes quiet roads, because when your car malfunctions, you can be stranded in the middle of nowhere. You should plan your trip and it’s a good idea to avoid driving late at night. Visibility can be very low during ice storm at night and the possibility of accident will be quite high.
You should always know about the condition of the road and it’s important to check the weather forecast. If it is predicted that bad weather will occur, then you should really consider whether it’s a good idea for you to drive. Before venturing out, it is not acceptable to warm up the car inside the garage. The accumulation of carbon dioxide could cause nausea and in some cases, it will be fatal. You should be fully aware on how the car behaves in cold situation and on icy road situation. You should always wear seatbelt when driving. When the sun is bright, it is a good idea to wear sunglasses, because fresh snow could cause blinding glare. You should start slowly at first and see how your car responds. If you think that the car is controllable, you can continue driving. However, you should keep a safe distance and never tailgate. When the car in front of you stops abruptly, it will take more time for your car to stop as well, because the road is slippery.
You need to drive slower when the overall visibility is low. When you get off the highway and the road is narrow, you need to further slow down the car. It is a good idea to use only low beams. When you use high beams, the light will be reflected off the snow and your visibility can be impaired. If you want other drivers to see you, you can turn on the hazard lights, so make sure that they work properly. Always keep tail pipe, air grill and windows clear of snow all the time.