Winter Driving Can Make for Slick Conditions

Auto accident claims increase in frequency by 12 percent in January and February in comparison to non-winter months, according to a recent analysis of claims incidence at Travelers Property Casualty Corp.

“Snow storms and icy conditions present a particular set of driving hazards,” said Peter McMurtrie, vice president, claim services. “Preparing your vehicle for the winter and knowing how to react in severe conditions or if stranded are the keys to safe winter driving.”

Be prepared before a storm hits:

Have a mechanic check your car’s battery, brakes, fluid levels (antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil), as well as the heating and exhaust systems to ensure that your car is in good, safe working condition.

Try to keep your gas tank full during the winter months. Don’t allow the gas to go below half a tank. Not only will this prevent damage from freezing, you’ll avoid running out of gas if you’re stuck in a traffic jam during the dead of winter.

Install snow tires or all-weather radials with adequate treads.
An adequate supply of windshield washing liquid is critical to wash away the mud and melted snow that can severely limit visibility.
Prepare for an emergency. Keep blankets, flares, a sack of sand for traction, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, towrope, booster cables and a flashlight with extra batteries in your trunk. You should also stock your car with material for survival, such as waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water, a first aid kit, dry clothing and a brightly colored cloth (to tie to the antenna).

When driving under adverse winter conditions:

Take care pulling out of streets blocked by mountains of snow. It’s often difficult to see who or what is coming.

Back your car into the driveway so you have better vision when pulling out.

Be aware of joggers on the street. Often sidewalks are impassable and die-hard joggers venture onto the street for a clearer path. Unfortunately, they may not see icy spots or other hazards hidden below the slush.

When waiting to make a left-hand turn, keep wheels pointed straight ahead. If wheels are turned to the left in anticipation of making the turn and you’re rear-ended, your car will be pushed into the path of oncoming traffic, which could result in a head-on collision.

If your car does not have anti-lock brakes and you start skidding on the ice, try not to slam on your brakes. Gently pump your brakes to maintain better control and prevent your wheels from locking.

If your car does have anti-lock brakes, slam on your brakes when skidding on the ice. Pumping your breaks prevents the anti-lock system from taking over.

If you must travel during a severe storm:

Don’t travel alone. Notify someone of your estimated time of arrival as well as your primary and alternate travel routes.

If stuck, stay in the car and wait for help. Run the engine and heater sparingly. Also make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow and ventilate your car so that carbon monoxide fumes won’t poison you.
Keep your energy. Eat food that provides the body with energy for producing its own heat. Replenish your body with fluids to prevent dehydration. Don’t eat snow; it will lower your body temperature. Melt it first.