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How To Avoid Accidents This Winter

A woman in winter attire kneels by a broken car in a snowy setting

Avoid a winter car accident by implementing our 13 tips.

Between the snow, ice, sleet, and slush, there’s a lot to maneuver when you are the driver behind the wheel. Whether you’re alone or chauffeuring a whole crew, safe driving is always the number-one priority, regardless of the time of year and the weather outside.

But when winter hits and the below-freezing temperatures settle in, driving conditions worsen and the need for additional precautions amplifies. Thankfully, we’re outlining many tips that will help keep you, your passengers, and surrounding vehicles on the road safe.

Continue scrolling to learn how you can avoid car accidents caused by weather conditions this winter season.

13 Tips for avoiding a winter car accident

Winter road accidents are an unfortunate reality of the season. Slick roads and low visibility can make driving conditions incredibly scary and taking additional precautions is necessary. Here’s what you need to know to help avoid car accidents caused by weather conditions:

  1. Know how your vehicle works in the snow — Yes, snow tires, all-wheel (or 4-wheel) drive, and anti-lock brakes are advantageous in the snow, every car will act differently in extreme weather. If possible, practice driving in the snow in a safe area, such as an empty parking lot. Try starting, stopping, and turning to get an accurate feel of your car in the snow.
  2. Keep a full gas tank — Extreme winter weather often causes delays and detours, forcing you to change your route or turn around. Keeping a fuller tank also helps prevent your vehicle’s gas line from freezing and breaking down on the side of the road, becoming a hazard to other drivers.
  3. Use a wiper fluid that contains antifreeze — All winter long, massive trucks will throw salt on the roads to manage the ice. While this is helpful, melted snow is kicked up to your windows, leaving salt residue behind. This isn’t a huge deal, thanks to your wiper fluid; just make sure you’re using a fluid that has antifreeze. Also, consider investing in winter wiper blades that help prevent snow and ice from hardening on the squeegee part of the wiper.
  4. Clear your windshield and windows — Keep an ice scraper and snow brush in your car during the cooler months. Your car’s defroster is helpful, but most would take a while to completely clear off snow and ice. Visibility is key in avoiding a winter car accident and a scape and brush will get the job done quickly.
  5. Ensure your tires are good to go — Tires fit for winter weather means having good, thick tread and properly inflated, both of which are essential for avoiding winter road accidents.
  6. Give yourself additional driving time — When extreme weather strikes, you can expect trips to take longer thanks to low visibility, slick roads, and backed-up traffic. Driving in winter weather is stressful enough; there’s no need to add the pressure of being late. Avoid potential winter accidents by slowing down and giving yourself extra time to arrive at your destination.
A man lies on the snowy ground beside a car, appearing to be in distress or needing assistance
  1. Check weather conditions before heading on the road — Make sure to check the weather before you leave; not only at your departure place but also at cities along the way and your final destination point. If weather is forecasted to be hazardous, such as a white-out storm, heavy hail, or black ice, anywhere on your route, consider changing your travel route or hold off for better weather to avoid car accidents caused by weather conditions.
  2. Never warm up your vehicle in an enclosed space — A winter car accident doesn’t just happen on the road, it could even happen in a place you might not expect, such as your garage. When winter temperatures hit, it’s not uncommon to start your car ahead of time to warm it up, making for a more comfortable drive. But doing so responsibly is essential for avoiding a winter car-related accident. Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by warming your vehicle in a well-ventilated area.
  3. Give other drivers more space — Leave more space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Generally speaking, cars need at least three seconds to completely stop on dry asphalt, and plenty more time when roads are wet or slick. Increase your following distance from three seconds to eight or more seconds.
  4. Take it slow — Accelerating, stopping, and turning all take longer in winter weather. Give yourself time and take it slow. Remember, “ice and snow” means to take it “nice and slow.”
  5. Drive cautiously over bridges — Did you know that bridges freeze before a standard road? This is because bridges are exposed to freezing temperatures on each of their surfaces: top, underneath, and sides. By contrast, a typical road is only exposed to cold air on its top surface. When temps drop, bridges will cool faster, accumulating snow and ice quicker, too.
  6. Never use cruise control  — When driving on wintery roads, maintain full control of your vehicle and never activate cruise control to help avoid winter road accidents.
  7. Keep an eye out for animals — When snow is on the ground, food is harder to find for various animals and they become bolder in their search for sustenance. This hunt leads them closer to roads, and possibly on roads. Avoid winter collisions and be alert for hungry animals.

Winter accidents: Always be prepared

Unfortunately, not all accidents are avoidable, which is why staying prepared is key. Always keep a roadside emergency kit on hand, complete with snacks, water, a blanket, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, a spare tire, a jack, tools, and more. Another way to prepare yourself is with automobile insurance.

A woman in a red outfit is seated in the open door of a car, exuding confidence and style

Prepare for winter road accidents with Bear River Mutual Insurance

Between the countless distractions on the road and extreme weather, a winter car accident is possible and not 100% avoidable. Make sure you’re prepared for the worst with auto insurance from Bear River Mutual Insurance.

In addition to car insurance being legally required in Utah, having auto insurance is a fantastic way to protect yourself financially, giving you and your loved ones the peace of mind you deserve. Whether you’re looking to protect yourself with automobile insurance, or another form of insurance, such as home, renters, or business, shopping for insurance is made easy with the professionals at Bear River.

Our trusted and experienced team is ready to help you find the best policy for you and the things that matter most to you. We will help you get the perfect balance of value and protection. We have three convenient locations to serve you best: Orem, Salt Lake City, and Provo.
Contact Bear River Mutual Insurance today for your free insurance quote.

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