Winter storms and snowy road conditions are all part of living in the north.  Sleet, wind, ice, and snow are all part of the season, and becoming immune to the danger can have horrific outcomes. As such, traveling Wisconsin roads during the winter means paying extra attention to your vehicle, other drivers, and the driving conditions. Defensive driving is part of your day-to-day way of life.   And while the perfect solution is to stay off the roads, it is an unrealistic approach for most people. So, since hibernating is not an option, learning to be hypervigilant is the best approach to staying safe.

Winter Defensive Driving Tips

Take it easy.

This is not just a great line from a song but a practical approach to driving. It’s okay to drive a little slower when navigating precipitation-covered roads. The speed limit sign is not there to decorate the roadside! Do not exceed the speed limit. Remember, you need to have control of your vehicle. After all, you need to be able to stop when needed without sliding off the road or into another vehicle.

Clean it off.

Before heading down the road, take a few minutes to wipe any snow accumulation from your vehicle’s hood, windshield, and trunk. You don’t want it flying off your vehicle toward the driver behind you or forward into your line of sight. Keeping an ice scraper handy will make doing this job quicker.

Be sure all fluids are at the correct levels.

Your car’s engine must work harder in cold weather. Transmission fluids, antifreeze, oil, and other items help protect your car’s engine and keep it moving. Keeping essential fluids on hand means you can top off fluids when needed. Contact local AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil, to get these and other products to boost your vehicle’s wintertime performance.

Have an emergency kit.

No one expects to get stranded, but not planning for it is foolish. Put together a plastic tub or backpack with blankets, gloves, hand warmers, snacks, batteries, jumper cables, flares, and other items. You will find many lists with emergency kit items to pack.

Keep the gas tank full.

You can’t have a full tank all the time. But endeavor not to let your tank go lower than half full. Not only does this minimize the risk of getting stranded, but a filled gas tank adds weight to your vehicle and increases traction.

Know how to get out of a snowbank.

Slippery roads are part of the season. Keep a shovel in your trunk and some cat litter, salt, or sand to spread on the ground so you can melt snow and have extra traction as you begin maneuvering your car.

Inspect your tires before every excursion.

Check for any tears, punctures, or low treads, and test the air pressure. If the air pressure is incorrect, you will have less traction and risk sliding. As to wear and tear on your tires, slight damage can be significant when it’s cold. Get tires replaced or repaired as soon as possible.

Leave space.

Don’t drive closely to the vehicle in front of you. If you have to stop fast, a collision is likely.

Driving during the winter doesn’t have to be a horrible experience. But it should not be done haphazardly. Plan for the season by doing your part to make your vehicle safer and practicing defensive driving techniques. AMSOIL products will make it easier. Reach out to Buy Great Oil today to get the products you need.