Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Winter brings out the two distinct types of drivers; those who treat the ice and snow with gentleness and care, and those who don't seem to distinguish between winter and summer driving! There is really no trick to being a good winter driver if you and your car are prepared. Consider the following:
- Make sure your car is ready for winter by having the engine tuned and proper tires mounted before the snow arrives;
- Carry emergency equipment in your vehicle, including a snow shovel, battery jumper cables, a bag of sand or traction pads, a towing cable, flares, a complete set of warm clothing and boots, blanket, and a few candles to keep you warm if the engine will not start;
- To get your vehicle moving if it is stuck in snow or ice, rock the vehicle back and forth gently;
- Ice is a major hazard during winter driving, particularly "black ice', a think layer of ice that is often invisible Any sudden turns or acceleration on black ice can mean disaster;
- Remembers that ice forms first and melts last on bridges and overpasses, where cold air gets underneath, causing the temperature to drop faster than anywhere else;
- Keep your car's windshield washer fluid tank full. Winter slush can temporarily blind you, especially when you are following vehicles.