Living in an area that experiences mild to severe effects of winter weather every year can be hard on your car.

Planning ahead is key for downgrading the effects of winter weather – even if you live somewhere that experiences mostly mild winters, its best to be prepared just in case.

Taking the time each year to prepare your car for the cold weather to come can mean the difference between staying safe and being stranded without the appropriate tools and supplies.

We’ve compiled the following list of useful preparations to help you avoid a potentially dangerous situation on winter roads.

  • Check the tire pressure on your spare tire.
  • Pack an emergency kit containing precautionary supplies like jumper cables, bottled water, a flash light, ice scraper, candles and matches, blankets, a change of clothes and a couple of days’ worth of any medication you need on a daily basis.
  • Once cold weather hits you should try to keep your gas tank at least half full to decrease the chance of moisture forming in the gas line and freezing.
  • Swap out your standard windshield wipers and washer fluid with winter specific versions of each.
  • Have your battery tested.
  • Examine the depth of the tread on your tires and if needed, replace them with tires made specifically for slick roads.
  • During winter, your tire pressure should be checked on a weekly basis.

Once winter weather hits, there are a few important driving safety tips you should remember:

  • Clear all snow from your vehicle before hitting the road.
  • Drive with your headlights on.
  • Slow your speed and accelerate and decelerate slowly.
  • Allow a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Know your brakes and how they will react in an emergency situation.
  • Pay attention while driving and do not get distracted.
  • If the weather is too bad, stay home.

Driving in winter weather poses a unique set of risks and dangers. If you or someone you love is injured in an auto accident this winter, turn to the experienced team of auto accident lawyers at Goldberg Finnegan. We will help you get the compensation you deserve.