| January 13th, 2009 by admin |
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Driving During The Winter Months
Driving During The Winter Months
Driving always presents a certain level of risk and danger. Vehicles are bigger than ever, with SUVs continuing to litter the road (though the recent economic crisis is slowly changing that). The bigger the car, the bigger the blind spot. Meanwhile, bald tires, faulty electrical parts, and driver negligence add to the likelihood for collisions and other accidents. During the winter months, when the ground is icy or covered with snow, the perils increase even further.
The cold weather is already upon us, of course. In fact, many states are still digging their way out of one of the most severe cold snaps in recent years. Today, I’m going to give you a few tips for driving safely on treacherous roads during the winter months.
Don’t Get Too Comfortable
There was a time when motorists survived by their quick reflexes, focused attention, and driving skills. Even though that still largely the case, perceptions have changed. The technology that is built into today’s vehicles give drivers a false sense of security. For example, traction control, cruise control, and 4-wheel drive all represent fantastic developments in auto technology. But, they’re not infallible, nor do they eliminate the dangers of driving on icy roads. Remain attentive while using them.
Compensate For Traction Loss
Imagine running along an icy sidewalk. If you immediately try to sprint forward, your feet will slip on the ice. Instead, you have to start slowly and build momentum. Keep in mind that once you’re moving along at a fast clip, stopping yourself requires extra time in order to slow down. The reason is due to loss of traction.
During the cold months, when roads are icy, your car also loses traction. Building speed and stopping require more time than otherwise. Allow more room between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Take turns slowly. And keep an eye on what’s happening further down the road, so you can plan earlier. Even if your car has excellent traction control, it’s limited on wet or icy roads.
Change Your Tires
You wouldn’t wear sandals in the winter months. Instead, you would swap them for something warmer that can compensate for the cold. Think about your car’s tires in the same manner. A lot of drivers keep the same tires on their vehicles throughout the year. The problem is that the treads can wear down, reducing the amount of traction. When winter arrives, that loss in traction makes driving even more dangerous. If you live in an area that receives snow each winter, put seasonal tires on that can deliver better traction.
Safety First
Millions of motorists drive during the winter with a hint of hubris. Unless they’re involved in an accident, they often think it won’t happen to them. But, wet and icy road conditions can dramatically increase the potential for disaster. Don’t rely too heavily on your vehicle’s gadgets and technology; get into the habit of braking earlier; and use winter tires. Not only is it safer, but you’ll spend less money on costly repairs.
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