Closings, cancellations, and delays, oh my! The U.S. has turned into quite the winter wonderland this week, and, if I had to guess, I’d say it’s only the beginning of the long winter ahead of us. The best place for you to be during these winter storms? Not on the road!
It’s no surprise that driving in inclement weather can be dangerous. Over the past five years, the U.S. has had an average of 450 fatalities per year due to ice and snow on the roads. In the unlikely event that your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, you’ll want to be as prepared as possible.
Winter-proof your car.
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Visit your local auto mechanic and get a tune-up. To decrease your chances of breaking down during undesirable weather, you’ll want to make sure your car is in good condition.
- Check your tire pressure, oil levels, and wiper fluids regularly–especially right before a snowstorm.
- Make sure you have plenty of fuel at all times.
- Consider adding towing coverage to your policy. (Especially if you don’t already have a roadside assistance service, like AAA.)
Create an emergency kit.
If your car breaks down during a snowstorm, you won’t regret carrying around that extra gear in your trunk. A few things to help you get started:
Practice safe driving.
- Check road conditions before driving. Allow yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
- If you must drive in hazardous conditions, make sure to let someone know where you’re going and shoot them a text once you’ve arrived.
- Always, always, ALWAYS wear a seat belt, whether you’re a driver or a passenger.
- Accelerate and break slowly.
- If you find yourself in a skid, ease your foot off the gas slowly and turn toward the direction you want to front of the vehicle to be facing. Don’t touch either pedal until you’ve gained control of your car again.
- Remain calm. If you’re nervous about driving in winter weather, take a day to practice in an empty parking lot.
If you have questions about extra coverages that could protect you and your vehicle in inclement weather, feel free to contact an independent agent. To view your current policy, visit the Brown-Phillips Customer Service page found here and on our website.
