Before you know it, snow, ice, and chilly temperatures will be here. Driving in winter can be tricky, but with a few steps, you can safely navigate roads no matter the weather. Below are some tips for staying safe and avoiding auto repair this year.

How to Safely Drive in Winter

1. Take It Slow

The more time you give yourself to get to your destination, the safer you’ll be. Speeding on slick roads is dangerous, increasing the risk for a collision, so take it slow and give yourself ample time to stop, especially on slippery roads where brakes will be less effective. Being gentle on your pedals not only saves them from wear and tear, but it also helps you avoid skidding and sliding.

2. Be Ready

The shape of your car can make a difference in how it handles in treacherous weather. Ensure that the battery still powers your vehicle and that the tire pressure is correct according to the owner’s manual. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them to clear away snow, ice, and rain easily. Clean your window to ensure good visibility, and call your auto repair shop to change your brakes, coolant, and oil.

3. Keep Your Distance

Having space between you and other vehicles gives you plenty of time to react if other drivers brake unexpectedly or there is an obstruction on the road. It also increases your visibility since you can see more of what is coming up. If the person in front didn’t clean the snow off of their car, or the road is layered with rain and melted snow, you are more at risk of their vehicle spraying your windshield, obstructing your view. 

4. Use Your Lights

No matter what time of day it is, turn on your headlights to help you see the road, pedestrians, and other drivers better, and for them to see you. If it’s foggy outside, use low beams since their soft, yellow glow will illuminate the area better as it cuts through the dense air. Avoid high beams since they will only reflect off of the water vapor in the air and cause poor visibility for you and others.

For help getting ready for winter weather, make an appointment with Schneider Auto Body. Located in Columbia, MO, and serving Boone County since 1989, the family-owned and -operated auto body shop offers every customer honest, reliable options on everything from collision repair to dent removal. They also offer a limited lifetime warranty on paint. To make an auto repair appointment, call (573) 815-0198 or visit them online for more on their offerings.