Safe Winter Driving and Vehicle Maintenance

It's winter time, and that means much of the country is dealing with cold weather and unsafe driving conditions.

The following list of pointers should help motorists to drive safely and to maintain their car during the winter months.
 
* Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. Trips can take longer during the winter than at other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. And, you will want to avoid a situation where you feel rushed while driving on hazardous roads.
* Slowly accelerate when proceeding from a stop.
* Give yourself plenty of space before stopping and turning, which take longer on snow- or ice-covered roads.
* Leave more distance than usual between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Give yourself at least 10 seconds to come to a complete stop. Motor vehicles usually need at least three seconds to come to a complete stop when traveling on dry pavement, so much more time is needed for slick conditions.
* Be careful when driving over bridges and roadways rarely exposed to sunlight. They can be more icy than other road surfaces.
* Avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.
* Keep the windshield and windows clear. Keep a snow brush or scraper in your vehicle, even if you live in a warm climate. It's not unusual for ice to form on windshields overnight, even in warm climates.
* Do not use your cruise control when driving on a slippery surface.
* Do not warm up your vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
* Bring a cell phone so that those awaiting your arrival can get in touch with you if you are very late. But avoid the temptation to use the phone while driving.
* Monitor the weather conditions at your destination before beginning your trip. If conditions appear too hazardous, stay home.
* When driving up an icy hill, do not apply extra gas nor stop your vehicle. The extra gas will spin you car’s wheels, and stopping completely will make it difficult to regain momentum. 
* Keep your tires properly inflated. Good tread on your tires is essential to safe winter driving.
* Check your exhaust pipe to make sure it is clear. A blocked pipe can cause a leakage of carbon monoxide gas into your car when the engine is running.
* Be sure to keep your gas tank full. Stormy weather or traffic delays may force you to change routes or turn back. A full gas tank also ensures that your car’s gas-line will not freeze.
* Keep tire chains in your vehicle if you do not have snow tires and you are driving through snow-covered or icy roads. Learn how to install the chains before you depart.

(Source: Insurance Information Institute)