Visibility is one of the greatest challenges when driving in winter. Not only is it essential for you to see where you are going, but it’s also important to make sure that other road users can see you too. Improving driving visibility is essential for avoiding accidents – especially during this time of year. Here are some tips to help you do just that.
Clear away all snow from your vehicle
It should go without saying that you will need to clean all the snow off your windows before you drive. However, many people do not take the time to clean the entire windscreen as well as the rear and side windows of their car. This can be particularly dangerous since the snow/ice directly affecting your view of the road and your surroundings. Apart from cleaning your windows, it’s also important to clear the snow off the rest of your car. This is not necessarily only for your benefit but rather for the benefit of fellow road users. When you leave snow on your car, it will fall off as you drive. This can create an almost blizzard-like haze behind your vehicle and this makes it difficult for drivers behind you to see properly. If you need to brake suddenly, the driver behind you could be slow to react as a result of poor visibility. Take the time to get up a few minutes earlier during the winter months and clean your car thoroughly before hitting the road.
Inspect your window wipers and defroster
Your windscreen wipers need to be in perfect shape throughout the entire year. This is especially true in the winter. You never know when snow might fall and it’s important that you are able to effectively clean your windscreen at all times. During the colder months, your windows tend to fog up, so it is very important to test your window defoggers/defrosters – both front and rear. A foggy window makes the road extremely difficult to navigate.
Use your headlights
During low light and other periods of poor visibility on the road, it’s best to turn your headlights on. This is not only to help you see the road better but also to make yourself more visible to others. Remember, it’s important to check your headlights regularly because if they start to become dull or cloudy, they might need to restored or replaced. Clear plastic coverings on your headlights will ensure that they are as effective as can be.
Finally, don’t forget that visibility is just as important if you are stuck on the side of the road. Some important tips to remember include turning on your directional lights, setting out a road triangle, and perhaps attaching a bright-colored cloth to your vehicle. Always remain inside your vehicle and call for assistance promptly. Comprehensive vehicle coverage will ensure that you and your loved ones are taken care of and your vehicle will be moved to a safe location by experienced professionals. Contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for assistance choosing the right plan for you.