Article Contributed by: Janice Miller, Safety Today
Whether you are a long-time Ohio resident, a newcomer, or a visitor to the state, driving in winter weather can sometimes be intimidating. The following driving tips can help keep you safe when you’re on the Ohio roads this winter.
Check your tires
Your tires are one of the most essential components of safe winter driving. If your tread is too worn and thin, your tires won’t be able to grip the icy roads, which is dangerous. Check your tire tread by using the penny test. Place a penny upside down between your tire tread ribs. If you can see all of Abe Lincoln’s head, your treads are too thin. When shopping for tires, if your vehicle has four-wheel or all-wheel drive, then all-season tires are enough. However, if it doesn’t, then you’ll want to have snow tires. No matter what type of tires you have on your car, GoodYear.com explains that you should always make sure they are inflated properly.
Keep an eye on your fluids
Before hitting the road in the winter, make sure your antifreeze and oil are rated for colder temperatures and are filled up. Also, check your other fluids in your vehicle, including power steering fluid, window washer fluid, and brake fluid. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your brakes checked, now is the perfect time to do so.
Put together a winter survival kit
Try to have at least a half-tank of gas in your vehicle at all times throughout the winter. Also, keep a winter survival kit in your car that includes a flashlight, flares, fix-a-flat, jumper cables, a tool kit, a window scraper, warm clothes, blanket, snacks, and bottled water. Pack it all up in a bin and keep it in your back seat or trunk. Additionally, think about picking up a pair of gaiters; that way, if you’re stranded in the snow, you can protect your feet from the elements.
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No, we aren’t suggesting you should send text messages or place calls while driving. However, having a charged phone on hand is vital in case of an unexpected storm or another winter emergency. This means you want to avoid having a phone that can’t maintain a charge, so consider upgrading for safety reasons. The new iPhone 11 has longer battery life and faster recharge, so you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can use it to alert responders if you get stuck or stranded. If you prefer Android, the Samsung Galaxy S10 is another high-end, reliable option with a battery that lasts at least 25 hours.
Take it slow
When the roads are icy and slick, it can take up to 10 times longer to stop than in normal driving conditions. Avoid driving in major storms when at all possible. When on the road in the winter, you need to slow down. Because traction is worse on snow and ice, you should drive slower than normal, as well as accelerate slower too to avoid skidding. Don’t slam on the brakes, instead use lower gears to slow down gradually and roll to a stop whenever possible. Though normal following distance is three seconds, AAA recommends increasing this safety margin to five or six seconds when driving in snowy weather to provide enough distance to stop.
While it’s definitely more difficult to drive on slick, icy roads in the winter, you can do so safely with the right precautions and the necessary planning. By adjusting your driving habits and ensuring you and your vehicle are prepared for the conditions, you will be able to enjoy driving in Ohio all year round.
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