Essential advice for improving winter driving visibility
Winter presents drivers with even more challenges, and visibility is one of the most significant of all. If you cannot see where you are going, you pose a risk to yourself as well as other drivers and even pedestrians. Here are some important tips to help keep you safe on the road.
Windscreen wipers
Your windscreen wipers are essential for keeping the exterior of your windscreen clear. It’s not enough to simply use your windscreen wipers when precipitation starts. Old, worn, or damaged wipers are about as good as no wipers at all. It’s important to check your wipers regularly and have them replaced as soon as they start showing signs of wear. Remember, there are different types of wipers out there, and there are some that are better than others. Make sure that you find the best ones for your car and budget.
Lights
Your headlights are not only helpful when it’s dark. They also help improve visibility when weather conditions are poor. Your headlights help you see where you are going and they also help others spot you on the road. Before you drive, you should always inspect your car. This pre-trip inspection should always include your headlights. Make sure that they are working properly and check the quality of the lenses too. Cloudy lenses make your headlights less effective and, if left unchecked, it will only get worse. Burned-out lights should be replaced immediately – even if you only plan on driving during the day. Foggy, aged lenses need not be replaced. They can be restored for a reasonable price.
Snow buildup
Snow can build up on your car and, if your windows are covered, you cannot see properly. Keep a soft broom or brush in your car at all times. Clear the snow off your car before driving. If you park somewhere for a few hours and snow accumulates on your car, you will be happy to have that brush on hand.
Tools and equipment
No matter the weather conditions, you should always have several supplies in your car. These supplies include an emergency medical kit but, during winter, you should also keep a reflective triangle, safety flares, a flashlight, and other supplies to keep you warm, fed, and hydrated. While it’s important to make sure that you are seen during bad weather, it’s also essential that you have everything you need to get you through a few hours stuck in your car.
Remember that, while it’s important for you to see the road and for others to see you, you should also be careful not to obscure the vision of other drivers. Do not drive with your bright or far range lights on at all times. You can use the brighter light setting when you are alone on the road, but you should dim them if you see oncoming traffic or when you come up behind another driver. If conditions are particularly poor, avoid driving and, if you are stuck on the side of the road, make sure that you are visible and call your auto warranty provider for further assistance. At A-Protect Warranty, we offer a wide range of packages to suit each and everyone.