Winter driving can be hazardous, so before heading into the elements, it’s smart to prepare. You protect the investment in your car the rest of the year with cleaning, maintenance, and coverage from an insurance agency—do the same when it’s icy. To help you avoid some of the most common collisions, here are a few helpful winter driving safety tips.

How Can You Stay Safe on the Road This Winter?

1. Regular Wiper Maintenance

An unobstructed view is essential for safe driving, especially when slippery roads make stopping or slowing problematic. Keep your windshield fluid reservoir filled with de-icing solution and replace the wiper blades whenever they show signs of streaking. This ensures you can clean the windshield effectively, even in slushy conditions.

2. Extra Space in Front

It takes longer to stop when roads are icy, so leave extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. You should try to stay at least eight to ten seconds behind the car leading you. Start counting when you note the car in front of you pass a landmark. If you reach the same spot in less than four seconds, slow down a little and let a larger gap emerge.

3. Steer Into a Skid

When many drivers feel their car sliding on ice, they try to steer into the direction they want to go, unintentionally over-correcting. Then, when the tires hit solid pavement again, the car lurches suddenly in a new direction. When you start sliding, steer into the skid. Resist the urge to turn the steering wheel; it makes an accident more likely when you reach dry pavement.

4. A Safety Kit 

In case you find yourself stranded because of a dead battery or a slide off the road, keep a safety kit in your car. It should include a blanket, non-perishable food and water, the phone number of your auto insurance agency, road flares, winter gloves, a hat, and a scarf—in case you have to walk somewhere—and a phone charger. A first aid box could also prove useful, along with jumper cables, road flares, and an extra gallon of fuel.

Even when you’re prepared, life can surprise you. For complete protection this winter, contact Pearson & Barnes Insurance in Somerset, KY. They are a locally-owned insurance agency in Pulaski County, and their two principals have more than 20 years of combined industry experience. They proudly carry auto, home, business, life, and farm insurance. Call them at (606) 679-1450 to request an auto insurance quote or message them through their website with questions.