Whether you’re taking a long trip this holiday season, or you will be driving through the inevitable mounds of snow this winter, you need to know how to make your winter road trips safer.
Even if you’re comfortable with driving through the worst of winter weather, knowing how to do it the right way could actually save your life or someone else’s. Read on and learn about some of these potentially life-saving tips.
Get your car a ‘check-up’ before the trip
Never assume your vehicle is in top condition before any road trip. Always get your vehicle inspected before a long road trip. Your mechanic will get it ready for a long winter trip, and it’s your responsibility to follow-through with their advice. Do they suggest new winter tires? While expensive, you better do it. For less expensive fixes, such as topping off critical fluids like antifreeze, coolant, etc., this small fix can go a long way in ensuring your vehicle makes it home for the holidays.
Check weather forecasts the night before
You could make your vehicle totally ready for your winter road trip, but it doesn’t mean a thing when the weather is going to be terrible. The last thing you want to do is wake up to a winter snow storm pounding your home and forcing you to cancel holiday plans. Small preparations can go a long way, so keep tabs on what the weather looks like at your location and your destination for the week ahead. If it looks like the weather is going to be bad on the day of your departure, consider leaving a day early to beat the weather. And if you do get caught in a bad storm? Don’t drive through it: park or get a hotel for the evening.
Driving a long distance? Tell loved ones your plans
As you drive on your winter road trip, regularly updated friends and loved ones of your location. Detail major legs of the journey, such as where you will be stopping to sleep for the night (if you must drive multiple days) along with the name of the hotel when you get there. Let someone know when you will be leaving and try to always answer an attempt of contact when a loved one asks about the status of the trip.
First-aid and automobile kit
You never know what dangers lie ahead on the open highway of a winter road trip. Be prepared by stocking your car with first aid and automobile kits that will keep you safe in the event that you have to stop driving for a long period of time. Keep enough blankets and pillows for every passenger in the event that your vehicle dies. Moreover, include jumper cables if your battery dies, a car charger to ensure you’re not stranded without a phone, and food and water to keep everyone in your vehicle hydrated and fed.
By planning ahead, you’re going to be prepared for anything Old Man Winter throws your way. For more tips and even the supplies you need to prepare for your next winter road trip, please reach out to GM Outlet Parts today!
Leave a Reply