Winter weather poses significant challenges for residents of Indiana. This is especially true if you have to drive. With the roads slick and slippery, it’s important to have good winter weather driving tips in mind to stay safe and avoid accidents.
Prepare your vehicle for the weather
Avoiding car accidents in the winter can help you avoid severe injuries. Before you even set out on a trip, you should ensure that your vehicle is prepared to withstand the weather. Test out the battery first. Extremely cold temperatures cause car batteries to lose power. You will also want snow tires to prevent your vehicle from sliding or skidding on snow and ice. All fluids should be plentiful as well. You should also have at least half a tank full of gas to prevent a potential freezing issue.
Keep an emergency kit
You should keep an emergency kit in your car at all times. Things you should have to include a first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable foods, water, blankets, change of warm clothing, shovel, snow brush, and ice scraper. If your vehicle stalls on the highway or you have an accident, these items will come in handy.
Drive slowly
Catastrophic injuries often occur after car accidents in the wintertime due to drivers not taking the proper precautions. Driving more slowly is crucial. If the roads are wet and slick and visibility is reduced, you should slow down at least 10 miles per hour below the legal speed limit. It can give you better control over your driving and allow you to stop more easily than if you’re traveling at the normal speed limit or above it.
Give extra room
While driving in winter weather, you should give extra room between your car and the one in front of you. Instead of the normal car’s length, you should stay even further back just in case you need to suddenly stop. It can help avoid a potential rear-end accident.