Winter in Virginia often brings several feet of snow and months of frozen roads. Driving in these conditions is difficult because of poor visibility and slippery pavement. Often, these issues cause drivers to call for roadside assistance. To minimize your risk of an accident, follow these tips.

How to Avoid Winter Driving Accidents

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Regular car maintenance makes the car to drive in snowy conditions. Have a set of snow tires installed when cold weather sets in, check the tire pressure at least once a month, and replace balding tires to ensure they have good traction on icy roads.

Schedule regular maintenance visits as well as oil changes to reduce the risk of engine trouble. Brush snow off the windshield and windows before driving. Keep snow chains in your car, along with blankets, cold weather clothing, food, water, a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit; these will help keep you safe and comfortable while waiting for roadside assistance.

2. Practice Safe Driving

You should avoid driving when it’s snowing heavily, especially at night when visibility is poor. However, there may be times you need to travel in icy conditions. Practice maneuvering the vehicle by driving in an area close to home in mildly snowy weather.

Drive more slowly when it’s cold in case of slick roads, and ease into every turn and stop so you can keep control of the vehicle. Eliminate distractions while driving, especially phone use and texting, since distracted driving is a major cause of accidents.

3. Stay Calm If You Skid

While you should avoid slipping or skidding on icy roads, sometimes it may happen anyway. If your car starts skidding, refrain from slamming on the brakes, as this will lock the wheels and make you lose control quickly. Instead, take your foot off the gas. Pump the brakes softly to slow down a little bit at a time.

Pay attention to the way the back of the vehicle is moving; if it starts to slide to one side, steer gently toward that side to straighten the car out. Staying calm and making small corrections will help you gain control of the car quickly.

If you need roadside assistance this winter, contact Robert Young's Auto & Truck in Roanoke, VA. Serving the county for over 35 years, they offer 24/7 emergency car towing service using state-of-the-art technology for a smoother, easier tow. They also offer skilled mechanic and diagnostic services to get you back on the road. Call (540) 982-3809 to speak with a friendly associate, or visit their website for assistance.