Gearing up for bad weather driving takes more than just checking the traffic cameras or putting chains in your truck. Sometimes the problem isn’t the driving, it’s what to do in case of a traffic accident, breakdown, or other roadway delay to make sure you and your passengers are comfortable and safe.

Vehicle Maintenance

Keeping your vehicle in top operating condition is important year round, but especially in the winter. Taking care of your vehicle not only helps regarding you and your passengers safety, but can pay off in the pocketbook as a well maintained vehicle usually costs less to fuel and operate. Make sure you are familiar with your owner’s manual and inspect the following:

Battery

Filters

Lights

Antifreeze

Defroster

Motor Oil

Tire Pressure

Windshield Washer Fluid

Wiper Blades

Heater

Belts

Brakes

Brake Fluid

Hoses

Another thing to remember during winter weather is to keep your gas tank as full as possible. Your chances of becoming a disabled vehicle increase if you are running at or near empty. Many gas stations close early to let their employees go home during winter storms, you may have counted on filling up at one of the stations that is no longer open.

Always clear your vehicle of the snow and ice that has built up on all windows and lights. Good visibility can be the difference between staying on the road and ending up off the road. Even clearing the snow off your hood and roof can benefit your vehicle’s operation.

Part of being ready for winter driving is having your vehicle supplied with the items you may need. If you will find yourself in winter driving circumstances, make sure you stock the following items in your car or on your possession:

Emergency Cash

Jumper Cables

Ice Scraper

Snow Removal Brush

Small Shovel

Tow Strap/Chain

Bag of Sand or Cat Litter for Tire Traction

Whether you suffer a breakdown or there is an extended delay on a roadway and you are unable to move your vehicle, you should also stock some sort of a breakdown kit. During moderate weather, sitting in a car for hours is annoying. During severe weather, a disabled vehicle in frigid temperatures can be dangerous. A typical breakdown kit contains the following:

Road Flares

First Aid Kit

Food

Water

Extra Batteries

Blanket

Gloves

Flashlight(s)

Warm Clothing

Boots

Medications

Remember, if you have small children to pack the essentials for them: extra toys, diapers, baby wipes, clothes, blankets, food, and drinks. The difficulties suffered by a baby stuck in traffic or alongside a road can be major.

By maintaining the condition and functionality of your vehicle and having the needed materials, you insure that when bad weather hits, you and your vehicle are ready for it. If you are prepared and your vehicle is well maintained, it also limits the chances that you will spend long lines at the tire dealership or auto mechanic when everyone else is getting ready for winter at the last minute. Being properly prepared for winter travel means not only doing what it takes to get you to your destination, but having everything you need in case something happens and you can’t make it there.

Get all the driving information you need at http://DOTwebcams.com Including links to traffic cameras in your area, photos of car wrecks, and must-see webcams. DOTwebcams.com is your nationwide index of traffic cameras, and a whole lot more.

Author: M. Allen
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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