THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2021
During the winter months, it's important to be prepared for all kinds of bad weather. Even though you have auto insurance to protect you financially in the event of a wreck, it's safer and easier to avoid accidents altogether.
Here's what you should do to stay safe when it snows.
Plan Ahead
If a snowstorm is in the forecast, go to the store several days in advance to stock up on a couple of weeks' worth of groceries. This will help you avoid unnecessary trips until the streets are cleared.
On the day the snow is set to come, pay close attention to the weather. If you're at work, try to leave —early as a quickly intensifying snowstorm can leave you stranded on the highway.
Take It Slow
Snow and ice mean less traction. In addition, there may be spots where the pavement is clear and spots where it isn't, so traction could rapidly change. Any sudden accelerations or turning could cause you to spin out of control. It will also take you much longer to stop if there's a red light or pileup in front of you.
Use Winter Tires
Winter tires are designed to give you extra traction in snowy conditions. If you live in an area with snow, put these tires on your vehicle before winter. You can also use tire chains when it snows. These chains provide you with grip.
Clear Snow Off Your Entire Car
Clear any accumulating snow and ice off your entire car before driving — not just your windshield. Snow left on your car can blow off and effectively blind cars behind you. And any ice that slides off your car while on the road could even break another driver’s windshield. And you’re not out of danger either. When you brake, loosened snow on your roof can fall forward onto your own windshield, blocking your vision.
Stay In Your Car
If you slide out of control and into a pileup, the safest place to be is often in your car. Remember that if you couldn't stop in time, the people behind you might not be able to either. And you don't want to get pinned between two cars while you exchange car insurance information.
That said, if you can safely get out of the vehicle and behind a secure barrier from traffic, do so. This would minimize any risks you might face if your car is hit by a large truck and you’re still inside it.
Don't Let Your Exhaust Pipe Get Covered
If you get stuck in the snow and can't move, keep your exhaust pipe clear. Snow buildup around your exhaust pipe can trap carbon monoxide and send it into your car.
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