Categories: Auto Insurance, Insurance, Prevention and Safety
Winter is coming with cold temperatures, fog, snow and ice. Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for hazardous conditions and treacherous driving.
Try these 6 tips to be ready:
Check your antifreeze levels and ensure it’s rated for the temperatures in your area of the country. If the antifreeze is over five years old, you may want to have it drained and new fluid added (check your owner’s manual for recommendations).
Even though you use windshield washer fluid year-round, you’ll typically use more in winter because of the salt and chemicals on the roads. Use de-icing washer fluid rated for your temperatures (e.g., -30 F), top off the fluid levels frequently and include the rear window reservoir if you have a rear window wiper system.
The sun sets earlier in winter, and your vehicle lights must work correctly. Test all lights and replace non-functioning interior or exterior bulbs. Clean all lamp shields and inspect them for cracks. See a mechanic to repair any defects before the freezing weather leads to further cracking.
These systems must operate at optimal levels to prevent a collision or rollover. A mechanic should inspect your brake pads, brake fluids, and steering system and fluids.
Ensure your tire pressure is at the recommended pounds per square inch (psi). Tire pressure can change one pound per square inch for every nine-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature. Sudden temperature drops can result in underinflated tires.
Refer to your owner’s manual or check the driver’s side door placard for the correct PSI for your vehicle. (Do not rely on PSI ratings embossed on the tire.) Remember to check your spare tire, too.
Check your state’s tire chain requirements before traveling in a snow-prone area.
Although a first-aid kit, flashlight and road flares are essentials, you should also have these for winter months:
For severe weather or long trips, consider keeping these additional items in your car:
If you are traveling with children, bringing along books, cards or games to keep them entertained is a clever idea.
Follow these tips and maintain slower driving speeds and a safe stopping distance during extreme weather. It’s better to take your time than to rush and cause an accident. Nothing is worth risking the health and safety of yourself and your loved ones. Drive safe out there!
Our knowledgable agents are experts at finding the right coverage for your trucking fleet, business, or family. Get your insurance quote now.
DISCLAIMER:Â Informational statements regarding insurance coverage are for general description purposes only. These statements do not amend, modify or supplement any insurance policy. Read your policy or consult with your agent for details. Your eligibility for particular products and services is subject to final underwriting and acceptance by the insurance company providing such products or services.
This website does not make any representations that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss, or type of claim or loss, under any policy. Be sure to read the policy, including all endorsements, or prospectus, if applicable.
Fraud is a crime
If your application contains purposefully misleading, absent, or inaccurate information, you could be charged with fraud. Your insurance carrier could potentially void your policy, or you could face civil or criminal charges or penalties.
Any person who knowingly and with intent to defraud any insurance company or other person, files an application for insurance or statement of claim containing any materially false information or conceals, for the purpose of misleading, information concerning any fact material thereto, commits a fraudulent act, which is a crime.