The principles of defensive driving apply during all seasons and in all areas of the country. Winter brings adverse weather conditions that increase the potential for accidents or breakdowns unless precautions are taken.
Visibility: Make sure you can see and be seen. Keep windows and mirrors clear of dirt, ice and snow. Frequently clean off headlights, side reflectors, taillights and mirrors. Keep your windshield washer reservoir filled with an anti-freeze cleaning solution. Replace worn or defective windshield wipers immediately. Keep your headlights on at all times.
Maintenance: Ensure that your vehicle and its safety devices, such as window-washing units, windshield defrosters, wiper blades, headlights, taillights, side reflector lights, tires, brakes, horns, tire chains and mirrors are kept in good working condition and replaced when necessary. Engine heaters, blankets, etc. should be inspected to ensure they are in good operating condition.
Driving on Slippery Roads: Avoid abrupt stops or turns on slippery pavement. Try to anticipate emergencies before they happen and avoid the need to make sudden maneuvers. Don’t cause your tires to spin by bearing down on the accelerator too fast. Don’t lock your wheels when attempting to stop by backing off the accelerator suddenly or braking too fast. Adjust your speed to the conditions of the road.
Appropriate Clothing: Sudden changes in weather, a vehicle breakdown or treacherous road conditions may cause you to be stranded or stalled for a period of time. Your survival may depend upon planning ahead for such an emergency. Your efforts should concentrate on staying warm, dry, nourished and calm. Ideally, a wool hat that covers the ears, woolen gloves or mittens, wool socks with polypropylene liners, loose-fitting layers of garments, and footwear that will keep your feet warm and dry will ensure that you can survive whatever weather conditions you may be exposed to. If stranded in a remote area, stay in your vehicle. Attempting to hike to a nearby town without proper clothing significantly increases the chance of hypothermia.
Emergency Supplies: It is important to prepare for unexpected emergencies by keeping certain items available in your vehicle, such as first aid supplies (including a blanket), a fire extinguisher, food, water, a shovel, flashlight/batteries and extra fuses and light bulbs.
Remember, preparation is the key to survival in hazardous weather conditions.
This information is provided by: Assurance Agency
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