Winter driving is just more treacherous than any other time of year. Even if it’s simply cold, you don’t want to break down on the road, but when there’s a threat of bad weather, you need to be prepared. Get your vehicle ready to handle winter conditions and know how to deal with the elements to stay safe. An FIA grille cover helps your engine perform better when it’s cold. Know which accessories benefit you in the winter.
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Observe Your Surroundings
Paying attention to what’s happening around you on the road is key to handling driving in inclement weather. You should watch for conditions that can be hazardous. Distracted driving is dangerous even under the best conditions, but in the winter, you can’t afford to be distracted at all. Make sure to plan ahead when you’re driving out of your community to have supplies, such as tire chains, to be ready for the winter weather. Always plan for extra time when driving in difficult conditions.
Protect Your Exterior
Truck bumper guards aren’t just a stylish addition to your vehicle. They protect your truck from dings, dents and wildlife collisions. It’s an easy upgrade to make your truck more prepared for winter driving. If you deal with snow or ice in the winter months, upgrade your tires to a winter model that give you more traction on the wet roads. Make sure your windshield wiper blades can handle the added stress of snow and ice by purchasing sturdy wiper blades.
Be Prepared For Winter Weather
Use the space in your truck to keep stocked up for emergencies. Pack a survival kit with an extra blanket and protein bars in case you do have to pull over or get stuck in the snow. Install bull bars on your truck to help you push debris out of the way. Keep a shovel and chains in your truck bed for helping pull someone else out of a ditch. A bag of kitty litter or sand can be another lifesaver for the ice and snow when you need a little more traction. Keep your truck well-maintained in the winter with fluids topped off so you’re ready for anything.
Know how to handle a skid in winter. You don’t want to accelerate, nor do you want to slam on the brakes. You need to gently apply the brakes while you slightly steer where you want to go. Aggressive braking and steering seem like the natural course of action, but you can’t overcompensate because that won’t correct the vehicle. If you can find somewhere to practice skidding and correcting your vehicle without damaging property or other vehicles, it can be good to understand how your truck handles winter elements. Know how to handle hills and other driving conditions before you spend too much time out on the road.
Slow down in winter conditions. Make sure you get to your destination safely instead of “on time.” Stay safe out there by taking it carefully. You and your passengers are more important than any time schedule.
