Ohio is known for its fierce winter weather, and the resulting ice and snow make driving risky. From updating your coverage with a new car insurance quote to equipping your vehicle with appropriate gear, there are many precautions you can take to stay calm and in control behind the wheel. Below are a few safe driving tips for winter.

5 Winter Safety Driving Tips

1. Slow Down

The ice and snow make the roads slippery and stopping difficult. Give yourself more time to react by slowing down. Don't exceed posted speed limits, and if possible, stay a few miles per hour below them.

2. Leave Extra Room

Leave one car length between your vehicle and the car in front of you for every 10 mph you're traveling on dry pavement. When roads are slushy or icy, leave extra space in case you have difficulty stopping.

3. Drive Defensively

Defensive driving means you assume everyone else on the road may suddenly do something foolish. Prepare yourself for the unexpected. Be wary of all other motorists. Don't make sudden lane changes, and signal well in advance of any turns.

4. Winterize the Vehicle

Make sure the car has good tires, a strong battery, and plenty of antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. Tires help the car handle better, a new battery is more likely to hold a charge in cold weather, and wiper fluid makes it easier to see the road and other traffic.

5. Request a New Car Insurance Quote

Because the risk of an accident is increased with slippery road conditions and decreased visibility, ask your agent about increasing coverage. If you only carry liability coverage, consider adding collision or full coverage to protect you in case you slide on ice and into a road partition. Additionally, you can raise your liability limits to alleviate the cost of medical treatment and legal fees that often accompany an accident.

If you want a car insurance quote for increased coverage to protect you this winter, contact 1st Choice Insurance in Fairfield, OH. They can help you raise your limits or lower your deductible to protect you in case of an accident. They have been serving clients in and around Butler County for more than 30 years, and they offer motorcycle insurance and SR-22 insurance to cover any driver. Visit their website to request a cheap car insurance quote, and call (513) 860-0666 to have a friendly agent help you design a policy.