Winter has fallen on Chicago and it is time to once again remind ourselves that winter driving can be dangerous and
scary. Below are some safety tips to help prevent auto accidents and injuries.
Do you know the three P’s of safe winter driving?
PREPARE
PROTECT
PREVENT
PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP
Maintenance
- Battery– Does the battery have enough power to start your vehicle engine during the cold weather? The only way to know is to test the battery. Most auto parts stores will test your battery for free. Take the time to have your battery tested for peace of mind.
- Tire tread– Vehicle traction and mobility is reduced when tread depth is insufficient. It is recommended to replace tires when only 5/32” of tread remains.
- Windshield wipers– Better Wipers = Better Visibility. Wiper blades made specifically for winter conditions are encased in a protective rubber shell that prevents ice and snow from building up on the wipers.
- Windows– Keep the windows clear. Remove snow from ALL windows, side mirrors, headlights, taillights and turn signals. Use the smooth side of an ice scraper to remove frost (a credit card or CD can be used if no scraper is available). The ridged side of the scraper should be used to remove ice.
- Washer reservoir– Washer fluid can freeze and burst hoses. Use only winter blends of washer solvent to keep the washer fluid from freezing. Do not add antifreeze to your washer fluid. Antifreeze can damage the paint on your vehicle.
- Antifreeze– If your vehicle’s antifreeze is not at the proper level, water can freeze your engine and cause serious damage. A 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water will prevent freezing. Pressure testing will expose any minor leaks before the leak gets worse. Antifreeze testers are available are most auto parts stores to test the mixture and most repair shops charge a small fee to test the pressure (some shops may test the pressure for free).
Emergency Items
Flashlight
Jumper cables
Abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, floor mats – to help with traction)
Shovel
Snow brush
Ice scraper
Warning devices (flares)
Blankets
Food
Water
Medication
Cell phone
Cell phone charger
Plan Your Route
Allow plenty of time (leave early if necessary)
Check the weather
Communicate your route and arrival time to others (this will help others locate you if you have an emergency)
Practice Cold Weather Driving
Find an empty lot and practice handling your car on ice or snow
Remember to steer INTO a skid
STOMP on anti-lock brakes
PUMP on non-anti-lock brakes
Allow greater stopping distance in ice and snow
Don’t leave the windows up if you are idling for a long time
SLOW DOWN AND DRIVE SAFELY
PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES
Use seat-belts and child safety seats
Make sure child safety seats are properly installed
Never place a rear-facing infant in front of an air bag
Seat children under 12 in the back seat of the vehicle
PREVENT ACCIDENTS
Never drink and drive
Never use drugs or certain medications while driving.
Slow down
Increase car distance
Watch for pedestrians
Never drive drowsy
Designate a sober driver if you plan to drink
Chicago is considered high risk for auto accident fatalities caused by icy roads. A 10-year average (2002-2012) by the U.S. Department of Transportation yielded the following statistics for winter weather accidents:
Snow/Sleet
Crashes 211,188
People Injured 58,011
People Killed 769
Icy Pavement
Crashes 154,580
People Injured 45,133
People Killed 580
Snow/Slushy Pavement
Crashes 175,233
People Injured 43,503
People Killed 572
Be safe this winter season and remember to enjoy time with family and friends.
I am a Chicago Car Accident Attorney who truly cares about my clients and their well-being.
Call me anytime 24/7 for a free case evaluation on your case at 312-888-6058
