With the winter season approaching in New York City, it is time for you to prepare to travel in snowy and icy conditions. Your preparation coupled with experience will enable you to stay much safer while you travel.
Understanding safe driving practices and the extra precautions to take when driving in winter weather can help you to avoid dangerous accidents.
Pack it up
Getting stranded in winter weather can be a life or death situation especially if you have not prepared for an emergency. Packing essential supplies in your vehicle, especially if you plan to take a longer trip, can provide sustenance, safety and support if you end up in an unanticipated predicament.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests some helpful items to include in your car emergency preparedness bag. These include the following:
- A couple of warm blankets
- A fully charged cellphone and mobile charger
- A flashlight and flares
- Personal medications, food and water
Experts also recommend packing a shovel, snow scraper and kitty litter to provide traction if you get stuck in a snowbank.
Play it safe
Because the roads can turn treacherous in the wintertime, plan ample time to travel to your destination. Driving behaviors that are already dangerous become exponentially more so during the winter. Slow down and avoid all distractions. Do not use your cruise control. Check on the condition of your tires. Never start driving your vehicle until you have cleared all windows of snow and ice. Practice vigilance and be aware of your surroundings so you can watch for reckless drivers and have time to move out of their way.
If you would like to learn more about staying safe from car accidents, please visit our webpage.
