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Becoming a new driver when winter is approaching can be a challenge, particularly if you have primarily learned to drive in the summer when the weather and road conditions are better.
If you’re a new (or experienced driver) and have just purchased a new car, here are tips for winter driving to keep you safe on the road.
Take Winter Driving Slowly
When you’re driving on the roads during the winter the most important thing to consider is the slippery surface. It is hard to see black ice patches of ice on the road at this time of year and you want to avoid causing an accident your first time out there. Be sure to drive slowly in situations when driving in the winter, particularly while corning to avoid spinouts.
Have A Lawyer’s Contact Information
Accidents are far more common during winter driving due to low visibility and slippery surfaces. It’s important when you get on the road for the first time during winter to have the contact information of a Car Accident Injury Lawyer. Hopefully, it will be highly unlikely for you to need your attorney’s contact information. But knowing the information is readily available is reassuring.
Learn To Defrost Your Car
Defrosting your car in the morning isn’t pleasant, but it is important to learn how to do it right. Do not pour boiling water onto the windshield to thaw the ice. The rapid temperature change might cause your windows to crack or shatter.
Instead, use slightly warm water to loosen your door handles to allow you to open up your car and switch on the heaters. Once the heaters are on, use de-icer spray and a credit card and scrape off the bulk of the ice. It may take 10 minutes for the windows to clear but it will ease the winter driving burden.
Understand Aquaplaning
In extreme conditions, standing water can impede the traction between the car’s tires and the surface of the road. If your car begins to pull or slip on a rainy day, it may be aquaplaning. If it occurs, use your turn indicator, pull to the side of the road and re-evaluate the driving conditions to determine if you can continue to drive safely.
Consider Winter Tires
If you live where winter weather includes snow and other inclement weather, consider purchasing winter tires Typically, winter tires are bigger and have a larger tread to increase the grip on the road. It’s better to be safe than sorry and the investment in winter tires could save lives.
Avoid Driving In The Dark
Winter days mean less daylight. Sundown can occur by 5 p.m. Particularly for new drivers unaccustomed to night driving, it can be intimidating. It’s best to avoid night driving in the winter for safety.
Be Aware Of Wind
Winter weather means erratic conditions, wind to rain, snow to ice and hail. If you’re a new driver and have a smaller car, it’s more vulnerable to the elements. A small car can get pushed around by the wind especially in rainy conditions. Be particularly careful when driving in high winds.
Check Fluid Levels Regularly
It’s important for new drivers to set reminders to check their vehicle’s things fluid levels. It’s easy to forget whether you are a new or veteran driver. So, store reminders on your phone to check fluids every month. Using anti-freeze winter is vital.
Replace Windscreen Wipers
It’s easy to assume when you buy a car everything is in top condition. But it’s not always the case. Sometimes when you purchase a used car you might notice that the windscreen wipers are cracked or lines on your windshield. If this is the case, replace them. Visibility is crucial in all driving conditions, particularly in the wintertime.
Devise An Emergency Kit
An emergency kit should be a must-have in every vehicle. It should include a torch, first aid kit, blanket, water, snacks, batteries, phone charger and a list of emergency contact information.
Article Last Updated: November 30, 2020.