Many of us have travel plans for this holiday season. If there is a white Christmas this year, you will want to be prepared for careful winter driving. Safety should be a top priority for the driver, passengers, and other drivers. Be sure to plan ahead before your winter road trips, regardless of traveling distance, to ensure a successful and safe holiday.
- Make sure your vehicle can handle the weather. Check fluid levels in your vehicle and leave extra supplies in your trunk if needed. Don’t forget to fill the air in your tires to the appropriate levels in addition to monitoring the air in a spare tire.
- Test that all of your lights work including your headlights, brake lights, tail lights and turn signals. Also test to see if your windshield wipers are in proper working order.
- Plan your route ahead of time. Keep a map in your car in case you need a reference to a new route. Also tune in to the AM radio for regular traffic and weather updates.
- Do you have an emergency kit? You may want to bring along a hands-free cell phone, water, snacks, shovel, sand, antifreeze, and a first-aid-kit. If the road conditions are too dangerous to drive, consider waiting until the severe weather clears.
- Share driving responsibilities to ensure that drivers are always awake and well rested during your trip. Take brakes and remember to eat so that drivers can remain alert.
- Buckle up and enjoy the ride! Have a happy and safe holiday season!
