How To Prepare For Traveling On The Road In Winter

In summer, the warm temperatures allow a car to respond well to any attempt at starting the engine. Yet cars behave differently when temperatures drop. In addition, wintertime temperatures get linked to icy and snow-covered roads. Personal Injury Lawyer in Stouffville is aware of the fact that ice and snow can present a real hazard to the unprepared driver and leads to numerous accidents and claims.

Before traveling in an auto, tend to maintenance issues.

Schedule a time when your mechanic can give your automobile a tune-up.

Check for leaky hoses and worn parts; get them repaired or replaced.

Once car is in shape, carry-out other tasks that help prepare you for your trip.

Study the vehicle manual. See of your automobile has antilock brakes or an electronic security system. The presence of either system can affect how an automobile will behave on ice and snow. If you own an electric or hybrid car, invest in a device that can keep your battery warm.

Make sure that you have both a spare tire and a working jack. You do not want to be faced with the absence of either of those 2 items, in the event that you have a flat tire.

Pack the necessary supplies: shovel, ice scraper, abrasive material (sand or kitty litter), jumper cables, flash light, warning device, blanket, cell phone, food and water. Be ready for remaining warm and comfortable, if you get stranded.

Tasks to complete in the hour or two before you set out on your journey:

Clean ice and snow from the windows, headlights and tail lights. If your vehicle has a backup camera, take the time to remove any ice or snow from that camera ‘s lens, as well.

Make any last-minute adjustments on your GPS system. This should be done during all 4 seasons of the year. It reduces the chances that the driver might be forced to adjust that system while driving.

Have the right mind-set

Think about what you would need, if you had to sit in a stranded vehicle; that should help you to remember the blanket, as well as any device that might be used to signal for help. At the same time, make certain that all of your systems can function properly, both before and after you get on the road.

Do not allow your attention to present-day systems, such as the backup camera, to blot-out the necessity for certain basics. A backup camera will prove of little value, if you get stranded somewhere with a flat tire and no working jack.

Moreover, if you signal for help, you should offer any volunteer helper the chance to access and use the most basic equipment. That is why you need to carry some abrasive material with you, in case you get stuck in the snow.