Cold temperatures and icy roads can cause many accidents during the winter. Preparing your vehicle for winter driving can be the difference between getting to your destination safely and being involved in a deadly accident. Follow these tips to winterize your car and stay safe on the roads this holiday season.
If you drive on icy roads regularly, winter tires may be a worthy investment. Winter tires have tread patterns and rubber compounds designed to handle slick roadways and poor weather conditions.
According to New York law, drivers can have studded winter tires from October 16 to April 30, so you can install those tires today.
Rain and snow combined with dirt and salt residue from the road can make it difficult to see while driving. Make sure that your wiper blades are working properly. If your wipers are leaving streaks on the windshield, it may be time for a replacement.
Make sure to keep an ice scraper and brush in your car at all times and refill your windshield washer reservoir with an antifreeze agent.
Have your mechanic check that your heater and defroster are working properly.
Lastly, ensure that your lights are visible and working properly so that other drivers can see you at night.
The last thing any driver wants is to be stranded during the winter with a dead battery. Batteries do not work as well in cold temperatures, so it is important to closely monitor the condition of your battery. You can check the battery fluid levels and add distilled water if the level is too low.
Note: Keep jumper cables in your emergency kit, in case your battery dies.
Cold temperatures cause engine oil to thicken, making it more difficult to turn your engine on during the winter. Keep up with your oil changes and consider installing an engine block heater to prevent the thickening of the oil if necessary.
Make sure to flush the cooling system of your car at least every two years to prevent corrosion. Inspect the radiator and heater hoses for any leaks, cracks, or contamination and replace them as necessary.
The last thing you want is to be locked out of your car in the cold. Ensure that your locks and handles work in the cold weather by using silicone spray or door-lock lubricant. You can use lock antifreeze to thaw the locks.
Even if you do everything to stay safe on our roads, the reality is that accidents still happen, no matter how hard we try to prevent them. The car accident attorneys at Goldstein & Bashner are aware of the dangers of winter driving and have handled numerous cases stemming from winter accidents.
While we hope you are never involved in a collision, keep our number in your back pocket to protect your rights just in case: 516-874-4362.
Goldstein and Bashner
