

Preparing for Winter: Driving Safety Tips from Gurian Law
Oct 21, 2024
4 min read
3
3
0
As winter approaches, many drivers find themselves facing challenging conditions. Snow, ice, and the early onset of darkness can change how we navigate our roads. To keep you safe this season, the attorneys at Gurian Law in Illinois have put together essential driving safety tips. Let’s help you drive confidently through winter weather.

Understanding Winter Driving Conditions
Driving in Illinois during winter can be risky. With over 30% of winter accidents attributed to slippery roads, it is vital to understand how snow and ice affect your vehicle. These conditions create low traction that can lead to sudden accidents. It's crucial to stay alert and adjust your driving habits based on real-time weather updates. For example, checking the Illinois Department of Transportation's road conditions before your trip can be invaluable.
Essential Vehicle Maintenance
Before the first snowfall, get your vehicle ready for harsher conditions. Regular maintenance will ensure safe driving.
Check Your Tires: Your tires are your connection to the road. Ensure they're winter-ready by checking the pressure and tread depth. A depth of at least 6/32 of an inch is recommended for winter driving. Consider switching to winter tires, which can improve traction by 50% compared to all-season tires.
Battery Health: Cold temperatures can drain battery power. Have your battery tested at a local auto shop to ensure it’s in good condition. A battery struggles to provide adequate power when temperatures plunge below 32°F.
Fluid Levels: Monitor essential fluids—oil, antifreeze, and windshield washer fluid should all be filled. Use winter-grade fluids to prevent freezing. Notably, a full tank of gas can help prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Wiper Blades: Replace worn wipers; winter-specific blades are designed to handle ice and snow. This simple act can improve visibility by up to 80% during a storm.
Taking these steps helps prevent breakdowns and promotes safe travels on icy roads.
Adjusting Your Driving Behavior
Adapting your driving style is essential in winter. Here are several key adjustments:
Reduce Speed: Lower your speed to maintain control. Reducing your speed by just 10 to 15 mph can make a significant difference in icy conditions.
Increase Following Distance: Maintain a distance of at least six seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. This allows ample reaction time for sudden braking.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Always make gentle turns and slow stops. Sudden changes can easily lead to loss of control.
Use Headlights Wisely: Turn on your headlights in fog, snow, or rain to increase visibility for everyone on the road.
By driving mindfully, you can dramatically decrease your chances of an accident.
Managing Skids
Skids can happen to even the most cautious driver. Here’s how to regain control:
Stay Calm: If you feel your vehicle begin to skid, remember to stay calm.
Turn Into the Skid: Assume a relaxed grip on the wheel and gently steer in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.
Don’t Overcorrect: Avoid jerking the steering wheel, as overcorrection often leads to further loss of control.
Brake Gently: If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the brake firmly and steadily. For cars without ABS, pump the brakes gently to prevent skidding.
Practicing these techniques can help keep you safe during unexpected slippery situations.
The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
While no one plans to get stuck during a winter storm, having an emergency kit ready can be a lifesaver. Here’s what to include:
Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with a flashlight, extra batteries, first aid supplies, warm blankets, and non-perishable snacks.
Ice Scraper and Shovel: Always keep an ice scraper and small shovel in your vehicle for clearing windshields and digging out if stuck.
Jumper Cables: Having jumper cables on hand can prevent losing valuable time when your battery fails.
Sand or Kitty Litter: These materials can help improve traction if your vehicle gets stuck in snow.
Being prepared can give you peace of mind while driving in uncertain weather.
Safe Driving Practices for Long Journeys
If you plan to travel long distances during winter, extra care is vital. Consider these practices:
Plan Your Route: Before leaving, check your route for potential weather hazards and road conditions. Apps like Waze can provide real-time updates.
Take Breaks: Fatigue can impair your judgment. Aim to take a break every 2 hours, especially on long drives.
Travel with a Companion: It's safer to have someone travel with you during winter months. They can help keep you alert and assist in case of an emergency.
Inform Someone of Your Plans: Always share your travel itinerary with a friend or family member. Knowing your route can aid authorities if needed.
These precautions can prepare you for various situations and keep you safer on the road.
Staying Safe This Winter
As the winter months advance, it’s essential to prioritize safety while driving. The tips from Gurian Law remind you to remain proactive and vigilant in your winter driving methods. If anything does happen though, Stop worryin', call GURIAN. (877) 3-GURIAN.
Stay safe this winter, and remember: preparation and awareness are key to keeping you and your loved ones secure on the road.