Winter holiday travel is upon us and amid the Christmas frenzy AAA reports more crashes occur during this time of year. Along with the winter weather conditions many factors can increase accident risks. To help you have a safe and happy holiday season in warm and sunny Arizona or snow country farther north, here are some valuable safe driving tips.
Vehicle Check
During this hectic time of year, it is wise to take a few minutes and prepare your vehicle. Whether leaving town for holiday celebrations or simply running errands, no one wants to be stuck along the side of the road.
- Check vehicle battery and charging system. Extreme heat and cold can shorten the life of a battery.
- Check status of engine coolant to be sure anti-freeze protection meets lowest temperatures expected on journey.
- Have the brakes inspected to ensure maximum stopping ability on slick roadways.
- Have tires inspected for proper inflation and any wear and tear that could cause a hazard. Keep in mind that the air pressure in tires decreases 1-2 psi for each 10 degree drop in outdoor temperatures.
- For the best in snow traction use tires recommended by manufacturers. Worn or oversized tires can lead to reduced tractions and more skidding.
- Check headlights and brake lights to be sure they are working properly. Don’t forget to check the hazard lights.
- With the risk of inclement weather, be sure to check and replace windshield wiper blades for the best visibility. The washer reservoir should be filled with winter solvent to prevent freezing.
- Be sure to keep gas tank half full to prevention risk of freezing gas lines due to condensation. This is also a good idea if traveling in remote areas because of possible power outages which can cause loss of operating service stations.
- Pack a winter safety kit for the vehicle. The emergency kit should include: a bag of sand, salt or cat litter, a small shovel, ice scraper, traction mats, tire chains, a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, paper towels or rags, warning triangles or flares. Also pack a blanket, gloves, extra clothes and drinking water. A first aid kit is a good addition and toss in a pair of sunglasses to help while driving in the glare of snow and ice.
- In the event of an emergency it is also a good idea to program cell phones for important phone numbers and take a car charger.
Driver Tips
When traveling into unfamiliar regions plan your journey before leaving home. Have an alternate route selected when possible in the event of weather related road closures. For more information on your destination and seasonal road closures check your destination at www.AAA.com. Here’s a few more driving tips:
- Reduce speed and drive smoothly, even when driving a four-wheel drive vehicle.
- Avoid slamming the brake pedal, or sudden turns to prevent loss of traction and control of the vehicle.
- Using excessive speed is the main cause of winter accidents. Slow down and arrive safely at your holiday destination.
- Avoid tailgating. Vehicle stopping distances change when traveling on ice and snow. In desert temperatures roadways become dangerous when monsoon rains meet dry asphalt. In either case if you need to pass a vehicle, be patient until it is safe to do so.
- Avoid using cruise control because during inclement weather if the vehicle begins to hydroplane and skid the wheels will begin to spin rapidly to maintain speed. This could lead to losing control of vehicle.
- Remember that bridge surfaces freeze before roadways so look further ahead and assess road conditions.
- Whenever in doubt of driving during bad weather, it is better to pull over until weather improves or stay home.
The chaos of the holiday season is upon us and even when you have taken all the right precautions keep in mind things happen. Be ready for the unexpected situations and the unprepared drivers. For more detailed driving on snow and ice tips go to Winter Safety .
Be safe this winter season and enjoy your journey wherever the road may take you.
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