Winter Driving Tips in Toledo, OH
Winter Driving Tips in Toledo, OH
As a driver in Ohio, you need to be ready for anything. While winter days can be sunny and bright, snow and ice are also in the forecast this season. Whether traveling for the holidays, commuting to work, or just running errands, knowing how to safely navigate the roads of Toledo can go a long way in keeping you safe and well. Of course, if you don't have to drive, it is always recommended that you stay home. However, we understand that life goes on, so if you must travel in the snow, follow the following steps to navigate the streets safely.
Make Sure Your Vehicle is in Tip-Top Shape
The first thing you should do is make sure your vehicle is in top-running condition. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road in the middle of a blizzard. So be sure to top off your fluids, and make sure you have a full tank of gas. Then, of course, make sure your vehicle has an ice scraper and consider upgrading to snow tires. Finally, pack a first aid kit, some non-perishable food items, water, and a blanket as an extra precaution.
Consistent Acceleration and Braking
One of the more significant mistakes drivers make is stopping too frequently, slamming on the brakes if they start to slip, and being unsure about how much to accelerate, especially when traveling up hills. Be consistent in your braking and acceleration. When you are approaching a light, slow down well in advance and wait out the light so you can keep rolling through rather than having to stop and start again.
Slow and Steady
The number one tip for driving in snowy and icy conditions is to go slow. The faster you travel, the greater the risk of losing traction and control. By slowing down, you reduce your risk of an accident. It's always better to be late than to get into an accident. If you start losing control, do not slam on the brakes. Instead, apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Don't get moving in a hurry, and take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember, it takes longer to slow down on icy roads.
Increase Your Following Distance
When driving conditions are slippery and icy, you should increase your following distance from the car in front of you. For example, increase your following distance to five to six seconds. This increased margin of safety will provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop. In addition, giving yourself extra space between the vehicles means you have time to react if the other car spins out, gets stuck, or stops suddenly.
Don't Race Up Hills
Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads will make your wheels spin. Instead, get a little more speed and momentum before you reach the hill, and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly. Don't stop going up a hill. There's nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia on a flat roadway before taking on the hill.
Rouen Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram is here to help.
Here at Rouen Chrysler Jeep Dodge, we want your travel this winter to be safe. We would be happy to help you find that 4x4 SUV you have been looking for. We know that buying a vehicle is a big deal. You invest both time and money and want to make a wise choice. We also know that there are a lot of options when it comes to purchasing your new car, truck, or SUV. So, please stop by today to see how we can help you.
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