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If your driving skills were honed or your first vehicle was acquired during the spring or summer, the winter weather driving might still be uncharted terrain for you. Nighttime driving may not have been part of your repertoire, as the majority of your trips probably occurred during the extended daylight hours of summer. Limited exposure to wet road conditions and probably never having encountered snow and ice while driving are situations about to change. While icy roads might be still a while away, the increased rainfall and fallen leaves are already making the roads slippery, indicating that your regular commute back home from work might soon be under the cloak of darkness.
Winter driving can be daunting for new drivers, and even seasoned drivers tend to get into more accidents during the colder months. However, with a little foresight and a handful of useful recommendations, navigating through even the most treacherous weather can be done safely and comfortably.
Ready Your Vehicle
The last thing you want during winter is a breakdown away from home in inclement weather. Cold weather places additional strain on your tires, battery, and engine. Prepare for the season by ensuring your car is in optimal shape, with assistance from kentsmartrepairs.com. Additionally, consider getting a full service done on your vehicle.
Equip Yourself with Supplies
Stocking up your car for the winter season can reduce breakdown risks and ensure your safety in case of an emergency. Include the following items in your vehicle:
· De-Icer and a windshield scraper
· A map
· In-car phone charger or power bank
· A waterproof coat and boots
· Blankets
· Water and snacks
· A flashlight
· Basic first aid and tool kits
· Extra fuel – Aim never to drive with less than a quarter of a tank
· An old rug or blanket to wed under your tires if stuck in snow
Allot Extra Travel Time for Short Journeys
In winter, the majority of drivers tend to move at slower speeds, particularly when the roads are wet or icy. Ensure you allocate more time for your trips, as traffic conditions are likely to be more congested than usual. Allow an additional ten minutes before departure for de-icing your windows.
Practice Gentle Braking and Acceleration
Braking distances can be significantly longer in wet or icy conditions, and rapid acceleration may lead to wheel spinning. Exercise caution and take your time with both maneuvers to ensure your safety.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Considering the increased driving time and caution exercised by others on the road, it is essential to leave a greater gap between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
Dress Appropriately
Drive in warm attire and wear flat, practical shoes with good traction to keep your feet stable on the pedals in wet conditions.
Avoid Driving in Severe Conditions or when Illness Strikes
If possible, refrain from driving in extremely adverse weather conditions. You are in the best position to judge your capacity to drive if you are under the weather. A slight cold might be manageable, but if you are dealing with a more serious illness or taking medication that causes drowsiness, your decision-making abilities will be compromised, warranting a break from driving.
Driving in winter may induce anxiety for those inexperienced with it. However, after a few initial weeks, you will have adapted your driving style, ingrained safer driving habits, and intuitively started allowing for more distance and time. Take it slow, stay composed, and trust the process.
