Winter driving should never be taken for granted, even in Atlanta, but unfortunately, there are many Georgians who feel that they can drive exactly the same way that they do when the weather is bright and sunny. Unfortunately, just because your truck or SUV is fitted with four-wheel-drive doesn't mean that your vehicle can handle the worst that Georgia's winter weather can throw at it.
You might not realize it, but some of the accessories you purchase for your car can actually help make your Atlanta winter driving experience far safer, and more enjoyable. These six auto accessories are absolute necessities for driving in the winter, but you might take them for granted because you might live in a warmer state. That doesn't mean, however, that you can't get snowed in at work one day this winter.
1. Keychain lock de-icer
An inexpensive and lightweight tool to carry, a lock deicer is necessary in the case that you come out to your car and find that a freezing rain has locked up your car doors. These are available in all auto parts stores and are used by simply pressing the nozzle of the de-icer into the door flap of the lock cylinder. After a few seconds, the lock will be freed up, and you'll be able to open your door without trouble. In a pinch, rubbing alcohol will do the same thing.
2. Windshield scraper/brush
While this accessory might fall under the "well, duh" category of car accessories for winter, many motorists, particularly in the south, don't carry one. They are critical for removing ice that has caked up on your windshield either while you're in work or sleeping, and are far safer to use than heated water, which will simply freeze back up again, and at worst, might break your windshield.
3. Cell Phone Charger
Every year, local news reports have at least one story about a motorist that was stranded after losing control of their vehicle in an out-of-the-way area. It could be hours or even days before you can be found, particularly during a heavy snowstorm. Keeping your cell phone charged up is the first priority you should be concerned with so that you can contact emergency assistance if you are injured or stuck somewhere.
4. Tire Chains
Tire chains can be an auto accessory overkill, particularly if your area seldom sees more than an inch of snow, but for some drivers, tire chains are an absolute necessity. These work best if your vehicle is fitted with sports tires. They can be used on all-season tires as well, but that's where the overkill part comes in. Most all-season tires are adequate for driving through most snowy situations.
5. Emergency Flag
An emergency flag, readily available at your local auto parts stores, lets passing emergency vehicles know that your vehicle is in distress. If crews see a flag hanging out of your car window, the first thing they'll do is check to make certain that you're all right. After that, they can contact a tow truck to get you pulled out of the snow bank in which you've gotten stuck.
6. Sunglasses
Snow is more reflective than grass, so it makes sense that having sunglasses in your car for winter driving is a good idea. You might be surprised to find just how intense the light can be when a clear winter sun shines off of a long stretch of snowy field. This can help prevent eyestrain and make it easier to see where you're going.
Auto accessories are more than a stereo and a bobbing-head dog on the dashboard. Most accessories have a purpose, particularly in the winter, and can mean the difference between surviving a harrowing winter driving experience or not.
Sources:
Shurhold: Winter Driving Accessories: www.shurhold.com
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