Here we are again, another winter season upon us and the
accidents are starting to pile up, literally. In the insurance business this
is also the time of year we see an increase in claims.
I was on the phone with a friend the other day and all he
could say every 5 minutes while driving home was "wow, another one!?". Yes,
another car in a ditch, overturned vehicle or patrol car with flashing lights
on the side of the freeway. So, let's try to be safe.
7 Tips for Winter Driving
- Slow
down and don't rush. Be sure to give yourself extra time to get to your
destination. It's better you make it there, than not. This also means,
drive slower on the roads which will give you enough time to react to
sudden changes or stops.
- Eliminate
distractions. If you have passengers, make sure they're buckled and
minimize the amount of talking you do as the driver. If you have pets,
make sure they're secure in a cage. Drinking soda, coffee or eating is
another distraction. Be sure these are done beforehand, your full
attention is important while you drive.
- Prepare
your vehicle. Make sure your car is ready for the winter cold. Check the
fluid levels, tires and wiper blades. In the mornings, while your car is
warming up - check your mirrors, scrape off snow and make sure your lights
work properly. This is also the time to pop in the CD you want, turn to
the radio station you like or enter the destination address on your
GPS device - all things that should be done before your drive.
- Check
the weather and road conditions. You can look online with a local TV
station or call 1-800-ROADWIS. Decide if it's worth the risk. If you
must drive, know your alternate routes if the primary one is not the best.
- Carry
a cell phone. Be sure you can call for help if you need it. Having a cell phone should actually be something you do all year round. You just
never know when you're going to need it.
Nowadays, cell phones also come with a digital camera. This is handy,
since you should take photos, if involved in an accident.
- Fill
your gas tank. A 5-minute drive can easily turn into a 30-minute commute
with more accidents on the road, lane closures and slow driving. So, be
sure you have plenty of gas in the car. If you do get stranded because of
an empty tank, check your insurance policy for roadside assistance
coverage. Typically, the service is free, the only thing you would pay for
is the cost of gas.
- Tell
someone where you're going. Especially, if you are traveling long
distance. If you have friends or family who will be expecting you, let
them know when you plan to arrive and on what route you will be taking.
Tell someone even if it's a trip in-town, that way help can arrive quicker
if you need it.
