The winter is upon us and sooner or later, New Jersey will see itself covered in a freezing blanket of billowy snow. But as New Jersians, life doesn’t just stop because of a few flakes (or feet) of the white stuff. Getting your car “winter ready” before the first snow will ensure you’re ready to face the road ahead. Ensure vehicle fluids are changed, tires are checked or replaced, and ensure all exterior lights are in proper working order. Then follow these driving tips if you need to travel in the cold and snow:
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Most vehicles keep the tire pressure information on the driver side door panel.
- Check and replace (if necessary) windshield wipers.
- Top off wiper fluid.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Do not use cruise control in wet, wintery, icy weather.
- Avoid hard breaking in wet weather as this can make your vehicle spin out of control.
- Look and steer in the direction you want to go.
- The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.
- Keep non-clumping kitty litter or wood chips in the trunk of your vehicle. This will help your tires gain traction if you become stuck in snow.
- When traveling long distances, make sure to keep a blanket, flash light, water, and snacks in your vehicle in case you become stranded.
- When in doubt, stay home. If driving conditions make it extremely difficult to travel, please do not attempt to go out.
For more information on winter driving visit http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/roadway-safety/winter-driving-tips/#.WG0-FxsrJPY