Poquet Auto Blog

5 Easy Tips to Prepare for Winter

Posted by Poquet Auto on Oct 3, 2019 1:00:00 PM

Driving in the midwest is typically a pretty easy thing to do. You can get from point A to point B without having to put too much thought into how you are going to get there and how long it may take you. This can be said for three seasons of the year, once winter arrives, most things about your commute need to be taken into consideration. Are the roads plowed and safe? Do I need to leave early in anticipation of delays? Will I need to get new or winter tires?


Driving in Snowy Conditions

According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 70 percent of the nation’s roads are located in snowy regions, of which, 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur in snowy conditions. A major cause of these accidents is the reduction in visibility, snow and ice covered roads, and ill-prepared drivers. Besides avoiding bad road conditions in general, there are many steps you can take to become a safe winter driver.

Decrease your Vehicle Speed

Planning your commute before you are on the road is one of the most important aspects of safe driving during the winter months. By knowing how long your commute will take, you allow yourself to leave early if needed so that you can slow down and maintain an appropriate vehicle speed. The speed limit may say 60 MPH, but in difficult driving conditions slow down and go at a speed that is safe for you and others on the road. Remember to stay calm and be alert.

Create Space Between you and the Car in Front

By reducing your vehicle speed, it will also allow you to have more time to react to any problems or accidents. It is recommended that you keep at least three car lengths, or three to five seconds, between you and the vehicle in front of you. During winter months, six to eight seconds is the preferred time between vehicles. This will give you a better chance to safely decelerate your vehicle rather than slamming on the brakes and losing traction. Using cruise control while driving in snow is not recommended as it can quickly lead to delayed reactions that can result in an accident.

Clear your Windows of Snow and Ice

Not only are snow and ice covered windows dangerous for you, you are also putting other drivers on the road in danger of potential accidents. Make sure to completely defrost your front and back windshields before driving in the winter and clear all the windows of the remaining snow and ice. Wait until it is completely melted before driving as frost can significantly reduce your visibility on the road. 

Create a Winter Emergency Kit

If it comes to being stranded on the road in your vehicle, it is crucial to have an emergency kit ready to use. Warm clothes like gloves, a winter hat, and a blanket will help keep you warm until help arrives. To help get yourself back on the road, a shovel and safety absorbent or cat litter can help you get the traction needed to get your vehicle moving again. Always carry a pair of jumper cables in case a motorist is able to stop and help you, never depend on another motorist having the jumper cables. First aid kits should include the essentials like bandages and tape as well as any spare medication you take. Other items in your emergency kit can include a phone charger, tool kit, flashlight, lighter, and a notepad with pen.

Make Sure your Car is Serviced and Ready

Having your vehicle winter-ready is one of the few things you can control while driving in the unpredictable winter weather. It’s important to have your car checked to make sure you are up to date with brakes and fluids and that you have recently had your oil changed. Always try to have at least half a tank of gas in your vehicle, it’s best to avoid a near empty tank of gas on the unpredictable roads, especially on longer trips. Tire pressure fluctuates as the temperature rises and falls, be sure that all tires are properly inflated and no leaks are present.

Driving during the winter can be nerve racking and uncomfortable at times, it’s best to take it slow and control what you can control. Be prepared before you hit the road with a serviced vehicle, emergency kit, and clear of any snow and ice on the windows. Once on the road, take it slow and be aware of your surroundings. It’s more important that you safely got to your destination than being stuck on the road on a cold winter day. 

What other tips do you have for safe driving during the winter? Let us know in the comments below.

 

Visit the #1 used car dealer in the Twin Cities

No matter if you've been planning to purchase a new vehicle or need one in a pinch, everyday at Poquet Auto is a great day to get a great price on vehicle. As the leading pre-owned car dealer in the Twin Cities, you’re sure to have a great experience when you visit Poquet. From the moment you step in the door, our professional staff will help you find the best vehicle, no matter the make, model, or price you’re looking for.

Finally, learn how to get the best value for under $20,000 or schedule a test drive in one of our 200+ vehicles today!

Poquet Auto

Topics: Tips & Helpful Info

Subscribe Today

      

CAR OF THE MONTH

 

You are viewing an immaculate 2017 BMW X5 xDrive35i that has only 22,000 miles, and an original sticker price of $68,670!

Features: M sport, navigation, panoramic roof, leather, heated front/rear seats, heated steering wheel, premium pkg, cold weather pkg, Harman Kardon sound, power liftgate, rear camera.

View this Car >>

ANNE'S CAR OF THE WEEK

 Annes COTW 11202019

2016 Land Rover LR4 HSE Silver Edition

This stunning 2016 Land Rover LR4 HSE Silver Edition has only 28,337 miles and an original sticker price of $60,495!

Features: Navigation, Dual Moonroof, Leather, Heated Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, BLIS, Meridian Sound, Climate Comfort Pkg, 3rd Row, Surround View Camera

View this Car >>

DAVE'S CAR OF THE WEEK

DavesCOTW11192019

2019 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sport

You are viewing an impeccable Alfa Rosso Alfa Romeo Giulia AWD that has $1,500 worth of options, only 3,300 miles, and an original sticker price of $43,340! 

Features and options are: Cold Weather pkg, Hated Front Seats, Leather Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Satellite Radio (subscription required), Red Brake Calipers, and a Rear Camera.

View this Car >>

Recent Posts

People Love Us On Yelp - 2017 Award Recipient