Car accidents tend to increase during the winter months because of inclement weather. Rain, snow, and ice present dangers that are often hidden until it’s too late, especially if visibility is reduced. The team at K.L. Smith Agency of Willimantic, CT, knows New England drivers especially need to take extra precautions to stay safe behind the wheel in the winter.

Here are three steps you can take to prevent accidents and car insurance claims this season:

• Inspect Your Tires: The last thing you want is to slam on your brakes in rainy weather only to have bald tires that cannot create traction. Many accidents can be avoided with a set of good tires that can grip the road when necessary. Maintaining proper tire pressure is also important, as under-inflation can cause uneven wear and tear along with a host of other problems on the road.
• Do A Brake Check: What's the use of having stellar tires if your brake pads are worn down to the metal? Faulty brakes present a major danger during winter months, so have them inspected before the cold weather sets in.
• Replace Windshield Wipers: It seems like a simple measure, but replacing your windshield wipers can prevent an accident by improving visibility. Business owners who invest in commercial auto insurance should definitely replace the windshield wipers on all their company vehicles every winter so as to decrease car insurance claims.

Saving money on car insurance this winter is all about preparation, and just a few easy steps will make your car far more road-worthy when inclement weather rolls in. It’s always important to be fully insured just in case, so call the K.L. Smith Agency in Willimantic at (860) 423-9294 for all your auto and property insurance needs. You can also visit their website to learn more.