Gray days, poor visibility, wet ground, ice. In winter, the road is full of mousetraps. But there are ways to minimize the risks, starting immediately by realizing that driving at this time of the year requires special care. Here are ways from Earth Development Inc that will guide you in travelling during winter.
Take Good Care Of Your Tires
The good condition of your tires can be the difference between having an accident and not. They are the car’s only point of contact with the road, and you should trust them. Or not. To avoid unnecessary risks, regularly check the depth of the treads in the tires and see if they do not show any damage: cracks, cracks, blisters. Then, try to check the tire pressure every week and definitely before a big journey. Don’t follow the advice of that friend who told you that winter tires should have a lower pressure to improve grip: that’s not true; follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The option for winter tires is not essential in most Portuguese regions. However, in the higher regions, they are worth considering. If going on snowy roads, consider adding chains.
Check The Mechanics
It’s not just the car’s exterior that suffers in winter. The heart of the car can also complain about the cold. Pay attention to the age of the engine oil, which, when cold, tends to become denser, incredibly when very dirty, impairing its circulation through the engine. In the coolant, consider adding antifreeze in a 50/50 ratio. And, since you’re hands-on, top up the windshield washer water reservoir – it’s essential to help visibility.
Test The Battery
If the battery is more than five years old, it’s time to start worrying about it. You can always check its condition at a workshop. And it is to be done in winter, when it is under greater pressure because we are constantly demanding it when we turn on the air conditioning, the windshield wipers, and the fog lights. And sometimes all of this at the same time.
Adapt The Driving
A good driver is not one who commands the car in any situation but the one who knows how to adapt his driving style depending on the situation. Consider reducing speed in winter – wet, snowy or icy roads will dictate longer braking distances. Do not abuse the brakes and prefer to reduce speed with the gearbox. Beware of hydroplaning! If you experience a lack of grip going through a sheet of water, try to keep the steering straight, disengaging and letting the car regain control and traction.
Watch
Attention behind the wheel is always essential, but even more so when several factors are playing against you. Keep an eye out for everyone using the road, not just other drivers pedestrians (if there are puddles of water, lift your foot off the accelerator and don’t toast anyone with a splash) or cyclists. However, it is not just vision that is essential to avoid problems. Hearing can be a tremendous ally. Therefore, keep the music at a volume that does not disturb the perception of other sounds and noises. In the case of snow in the car you can use the help of Snow Removal in Dubuque, IA to clear it.
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