With rain and snow in this weekend's weather forecast, drivers may want to take note. A do-it-yourself vehicle safety survey can help make sure cars are ready for winter driving conditions.
First, check to make sure the vehicle has working headlights, taillights and blinkers. Windshield wipers need to be up to the challenge of freezing slush and/or heavy road spray from melting snow and deicer. Antifreeze can expire. Check when it was last refilled and fill it up.
Tires are one of the most important tools for winter driving. A new set of all-season tires may be in order if the current set is wearing thin. Winter tires have a more aggressive tread, and could come in handy this winter. If running studs or driving a vehicle with four-wheel drive, keep a set of winter chains in the trunk.
The trunk should be a storehouse of winter emergency supplies and tools. Some of these include a bag of sand, a shovel, road flares, sturdy gloves, a heavy winter coat or blanket and a pair of waterproof boots.
Make sure to check that the heater does heat and the defroster does its job.
Winter driving also requires a different approach. Speed limits are estimated for optimal driving conditions – bright light and dry pavement. Winter rarely allows for optimum conditions, and drivers should respond by driving below the maximum and increasing the distance between them and the vehicle ahead. Use your signals when turning, and approach intersections more cautiously.
Of course, it's even more important to put down the latte, shut off the cell phone, put on the seatbelts and pay attention on the road in the winter. Drivers who can do these things stand a much greater chance of making it to spring unscathed
Some of the most scenic road trips involve winter driving, and the motorist who is prepared is the motorist who can enjoy them.
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