Keeping Your Vehicle Safe on the Road All Year Long
As the seasons change, drivers are met with new challenges on the road. Whether you’re driving into a winter snowstorm in the mountains, or a summer hail storm in the mid-west, it’s important to be prepared. Keeping your vehicle regularly maintained and having the essential items on hand while driving will keep you safe on the road all year long. Read on to learn about the obstacles you may encounter in each season while driving.
To-Do’s for Seasonal Vehicle Prep
WINTER
You may have to watch out for snowstorms and slick roads in the winter. Checking the weather forecast before driving can help you avoid delays, accidents, or worse. Follow the tips below to avoid getting stranded in your vehicle.
- Always plan your route ahead of time
- Practice driving in the snow and ice
- Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full
- Inspect your exhaust system for leaks
- Check your tire treads and upgrade to winter or all-season tires if necessary
- Test your vehicle’s battery
- Install winter windshield wipers and antifreeze wiper fluid
- Have an emergency kit
Auto Emergency Kit Must-Have’s
Prep your winter emergency auto kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, traction material like kitty litter or sand, snow shovel, ice scraper, water, spare food, and plenty of blankets. Click here to learn more about weatherizing your vehicle for the winter months.
SPRING/SUMMER
With spring and summer come excessive heat and increased traffic. Potholes on the road may have worsened during the winter, which can cause significant damage to your car. Follow these to-do’s to stay safe during these popular seasons.
- Make sure your battery is charged throughout the season
- Check your spare tire for proper inflation
- Keep a jack and tire-changing tools on hand
- Check your air conditioning system for any leaks
- Check your cooling system for appropriate antifreeze coolant
- Check that the belts, hoses and water pump are working properly
- Check your motor oil for the correct viscosity (10W-30 or 10W-40 for hot weather)
FALL
In the fall, it’s essential to watch out for slick roads, increased wildlife, and busy school zones. Animal-related crashes typically increase from October through December. Drivers should remain alert on the roads in the fall, as well as work to prepare their vehicles for winter driving.
- Keep headlights and taillights polished
- Test the vehicle’s heater and defroster
- Look for cracks in the hoses and belts
- Refill your wiper fluid with antifreeze wiper fluid
- Replace worn tires
- Check and replace your battery if necessary
- Check your oil to prepare for winter driving
- Make sure your auto emergency kit is located in your vehicle
Some accidents on the road are unavoidable. If you’ve been in an accident in Colorado, give us a call to schedule a free estimate. Contact us today!
