Winter is a magical time of year, filled with the most exciting holidays. Winter driving can become treacherous, and your car may require more maintenance.
Any time you’ve got to drive in inclement weather, follow these essential safety tips from Salvagebid that you’ll find in this article. They will help you get where you’re going safely.
Use winter tires
According to the NHTSA, there were 738 traffic fatalities in 2017 caused by using improper tires during winter. That’s why fitting your vehicle with winter tires is the primary safety tip you need to follow.
When changing your tires, make sure they are appropriately set and have enough tread. Make sure to check the air pressure in your tires to minimize the risk of blowing out.
Each vehicle manufacturer shares recommendations on inflation pressure that you can find located on the driver’s side door frame. It’s important not to mistake the number listed on the tire for the correct pressure.
If you’re not sure what winter tires you need to buy for your salvage car, check out this tire guide from the NHTSA.
Stock your car
During winter, you may need a few items to handle your common winter-driving tasks or to use in case of an emergency.
- An ice scraper, broom, and snow shovel will help you clear the way before you move out from a parking lot or garage.
- Sand or another abrasive material would be helpful if you get stuck in the snow while driving.
- A set of jumper cables should be among the essentials in your emergency kit. If your battery dies, you’ll be in a much better position to charge it with the help of a passerby.
If you travel longer distances than usual, make sure to bring warm blankets, a medicine kit, a thermos with hot water, and a charger for your phone. You’ll need all the stuff if you are stuck outside the city and have to wait for a tow truck or another emergency vehicle.
Also, we recommend never letting your tank get below half-full. For plug-in and hybrid cars, make sure to keep your vehicle charged as often as possible.
Adjust speed
Any turn or adjustment to speed you make with a car on a snowy road will take longer to accomplish, so you’d better slow down. Make sure you drive at a safe speed and have enough space around you. Note that you need about twice your normal following distance to the car in front of you when you drive in the snow. This will give you more time to react in a hazardous situation.
If you need to turn, make it slow and deliberate, avoiding harsh adjustments. If your car is supplied with antilock brakes, apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. If you don’t have ABS, pump your brakes. This will prevent your car’s wheels from locking up.
Stay safe with Salvagebid
If you’re thinking of buying a salvage car from our online auction, we recommend focusing on the safety features it has. In winter, when the roads are snowy and slippery, safety is more important than ever, so choose a salvage car wisely. Check out our recommendations for buying a safe salvage car and feel free to contact our support office at support@salvagebid.com if you have any questions.
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