Help! Texans Can’t Drive in Winter!
It’s winter in Texas. That can mean below zero temperatures one day and 60 degrees the next. Since our winters are not consistently cold, when ice, sleet, or snow hit our roads, most Texas drivers are not well-equipped to handle those dangerous conditions. In inclement weather, it’s really best to just stay off the roads, but if you must drive, there are things you can do before you hit the roads to help make sure your drive is safer.
First, be sure your car is winter-ready.
- Keep your fluid levels high and your engine and brakes in good repair.
- Check all lights often and replace any burned out bulbs.
- Make sure your car has all-season tires, they are properly filled, and they have plenty of tread. To have good traction on snow, your tires need at least 6/32-inch deep tread.
- Replace your wiper blades regularly and keep your windshield and windows clean on the inside as well.
- Be sure your car is equipped with a good spare tire, jack, flashlight, jumper cables, cell phone charger, basic tool box, and a first aid kit at all times. In addition, during the winter months keep extra clothing, blankets, water, and snacks on hand in case you get stuck on the road in the cold.
Know your car and how it responds under specific conditions before you get on the road. Front wheel drive vehicles handle better in slippery conditions than rear wheel drive vehicles which tend to slide from side to side during turns on icy roads. Anti-lock braking systems offer advantages on slick roads, but only if used correctly. To become familiar with your car, refer to your owner’s manual and, if possible, practice driving on ice and snow at slow speeds in an empty parking lot.
Before getting in your car, do a final safety check and clean off any ice and snow that have accumulated on your car. You want to be sure all lights and windows are clear and to prevent snow and ice from falling into your line of vision while you’re driving.
Last but not least, make sure you have your cell phone with you. If something does happen to you on the road, you want to be sure you have immediate access to help. And while you’re at it, add the phone number for the nearest Accident and Injury Chiropractic office to your phone. We hope these tips will keep you safe from accidents this winter, but if you are involved in an accident, remember that we are here for you. Since all we do is treat car accident victims, we know just what to do to help you in your recovery.
