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Winter’s frigid temperatures bring ice and snow that can make even the safest, most well-maintained roads potentially dangerous. A light dusting of snow or a brief drop in the temperature can create the ideal conditions for a car accident, resulting in significant damage and expensive repair bills. Fortunately, many of these incidents can be avoided by exercising a little caution throughout the season.

4 Helpful Tips for Safe Winter Driving

1. Leave More Space

If you have to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions or unexpected moves by another driver, then slamming the brakes on an icy road could cause you to lose control of the vehicle. In normal conditions, drivers should leave six seconds’ worth of space between themselves and other cars. When the roads are wet or slippery, you should increase this following distance to at least 10 seconds, so you have more time to respond.

2. Slow Down

car accidents Cheney WARemember that posted speed limits are calculated for safe driving in dry conditions, not for wet, snowy, or icy roads. Even if the road seems clear, drive a few hours per hour below the speed limit, and exercise caution when going around turns and curves. Very thin ice isn’t always visible until you are driving on it, which makes speeding hazardous.

3. Have Your Car Maintained

Before hitting the road, schedule a winter tuneup with a skilled mechanic. They’ll check the battery to ensure you have sufficient voltage, adjust your coolant levels if necessary, and perform any other routine maintenance that can help you avoid weather-related breakdowns and accidents.

4. Avoid Driving

Pay attention to road closure notices and avoid driving if your area has been put under a cold weather watch. If you absolutely have to get behind the wheel, be extremely careful and watch for black ice that can cause unexpected car accidents.

 

If you’ve been in a winter car accident, then you can depend on the expert technicians at Daves Auto in Cheney, WA, to provide the fast, effective auto repairs you need. Their team stands behind every job they do and places a service guarantee on all work. Visit their website for an overview of their auto repair services, and call (509) 235-6123 to make an appointment today.

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