Drive Safely This Winter with Tips from an Expert Car Mechanic in Athens County, OH

Navigating the roads and freeways today is a bit different from how it was just a few decades ago. Nowadays, there are more licensed drivers, which means more vehicles, and in turn, heavier traffic. All this adds to the difficultly of winter driving. During the winter, you may run into roads that are icy, wet or snow-covered, depending on the area you live in.

Whether you are looking for a winter driving safety refresher or have recently moved to an area with harsh winters, the following tips for you! Here are some pointers from an expert car mechanic in Athens County, OH to help you ensure safe winter driving.

Know how to drive in winter weather conditions

If you’ve been driving the same car for a while, then you know how it handles. But it’s a good idea to give yourself a refresher course for having to drive in harsh weather conditions once winter comes back around. Those living in areas that get snow might want to practice driving in snow on back roads or in a parking lot.

Once you feel comfortable driving in the snow, it’s time to take to the main roads. Always drive slowly, which helps you maintain control over your vehicle and gives you plenty of time to apply the brakes.

Plan travel routes ahead of time

Going out in bad winter weather can take some planning on your part; planning your travel and routes ahead of time keeps you and your passengers safe. Do this by checking the weather, traffic and road conditions. Leaving early may be necessary to help you avoid feeling rushed, allowing plenty of time to reach your destination safely. If you’re driving a good distance, full up your gas tank just in case you end up stuck in traffic, or get lost.

Create an emergency car kit

Every vehicle should have an emergency car kit and essential winter items. Some things to have in your car throughout the winter months include: a window ice scraper, snow shovel, jumper cables, flashlights, road flares, blankets and winter jackets and a first aid kit, as well as bottled water and non-perishable food items.

Protect yourself and your passengers

Always wear your seatbelt, and check that all passengers in the vehicle are also buckled in. Never text, talk on the phone, eat, smoke or become distracted in other ways when driving, especially when winter is dropping blinding rain or snow. Also be aware that bulky winter clothing can get in the way of seatbelts, so pay close attention that the buckle is all the way in when securing children in their car seats.

Winter driving can be intimidating at times—especially when there’s a storm or a sudden heavy downpour. To stay safe this season, visit a reputable auto shop for a routine checkup, and bring up any concerns about your vehicle with your car mechanic in Athens County, OH.

Dana’s Tire Center is your one-stop shop for all your auto service and repair needs—call us today!

Categorised in: Car Mechanic

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