Are you going home to see the family this holiday season? While most of us think about the excitement of the season, many forget to take precautions when driving in icy or snowy weather. Aside from ensuring that your car insurance is up to date, it’s advisable to take certain precautions before hitting the road. Here are three important tips on how to safely get to where you’re going this holiday season.

How to Prepare for Holiday Travel

Winterize Your Car

Aside from checking the weather before you venture out this winter, it’s best to have a mechanic check the conditions of your car before the cold weather arrives. Check all fluid levels, air and emissions filters, and washer fluid. Also, have your mechanic check your battery, lights, and radiator for any cracks or leaks. Breaking down in the dead of winter can be prevented if you take these preventative measures.

Understand How to Avoid a Crash

With precarious driving conditions, it’s beneficial to understand how to avoid a crash. Driving in snow and ice is unpredictable, at best. Drive slowly, accelerating and decelerating slowly. Don’t press your foot on the brake – this will cause you to slide in icy conditions. Keep a significant car distance between you and the driver in front of you; if visibility is so limited that you can’t see, pull over to the side of the road. In the event there is a collision, have all the necessary emergency and car insurance contact information that you’ll need on hand.

Be Prepared for an Emergency

In the event of an emergency, be sure that you’re prepared ahead of time. Keeping certain items on hand will make it easier to deal with the situation while emergency roadside assistance is on their way. Warm mittens and blankets, an inflated spare tire, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food items should all be kept on hand for roadside emergencies.

If you or your family plan on driving during this holiday season, be sure to prepare before you go. The first thing to do is check in with your insurance agent to make sure that you have the right car insurance coverage for your needs. The qualified team at K.L. Smith Agency, has been serving the Willimantic, CT, community for over 62 years. Their expertise and attention to detail will ensure that you leave with the right coverage and peace of mind. Call them today at (860) 423-9294 or visit their website for more information about their car insurance options.