If you’re a native to New York and even if you’re relatively new to East Amherst, you might be familiar with how the roads can get scary this time of year. However familiar with driving in the winter you may feel you are, it’s always good to remind yourself of some important winter driving tips. Today the Autumn Creek Apartments Blog has a few pointers for driving in the winter!
Be prepared.
Keeping yourself mentally and physically prepared and your supplies suitable for the winter immediately puts you on the right track for winter driving. Prepare not only your vehicle and your expectations for driving but also your schedule so you don’t have to rush while you’re out on the road.
If you can’t or don’t want to check your car yourself, take it into an auto shop to ensure all your car’s fluids are at the levels they should be and the air pressure in your tires is also where it should be. Check that your engine is running smoothly, all tubes are secured, your heating and air conditioning works, your wipers don’t leave streaks, and other parts of your vehicle are in good shape.
Then prepare what goes inside your car for everyday use and emergencies: Stock your car with a car window defrosting spray, an ice scraper with a brush, an emergency kit, blankets, water, and non-perishable food items. Check out these 15 things to have in your car for the winter for more ideas.
Be cautious.
All the preparation in the world doesn’t protect against accidents or the unfortunate consequences of aggressive or careless winter driving. “More than 800 people die each year in the U.S. in vehicle crashes caused by snow, sleet and freezing rain,” according to Glenn Coin on winter driving for Syracuse.com. While you may be prepared, nature is nothing to be messed with. Remember that you don’t have all the control, so respect that and be careful.
A big part of that means slowing down. You may not have to go at a snail’s pace, depending on the situation of the road you’re on. But increasing your following distance and slowing down — especially when you’re turning, merging into traffic, switching lanes, or merging onto highways — can minimize your risk for sliding.
Remember also to be a defensive, alert driver as you drive, as you (hopefully) would in normal conditions. Use your blinker when turning or switching lanes. Avoid cutting people off. Try not to get worked up when others don’t do their part for creating a safe space. And pay attention! Every good driver contributes to a safer driving experience for everyone.
What are your best tips for driving in the winter? Share with the rest of our apartment community by leaving a comment! Thanks for reading. Good luck, and be safe!
