The winter in New York can be incredibly harsh. From below-freezing temperatures to heavy precipitation, there are many weather factors that can make driving more difficult. Snowstorms affect visibility and vehicle traction. Heavy winds can cause drifting and can lead to drivers losing control of their vehicles.
Typically, drivers need to make certain adjustments to their habits to optimize their safety during the coldest months of the year. The tips below can help people reduce their likelihood of experiencing a winter weather car crash, and could help them avoid secondary issues if a crash occurs.
Keep vehicles in proper condition
Routine maintenance and prompt repairs are crucial at all times. However, vehicle maintenance becomes critical during the coldest part of the year. Drivers need to make sure that their tires are in good enough condition to maintain traction even in freezing weather conditions. They need windshield wiper blades that can keep snow and ice from accumulating on their windshields and brakes that do their job efficiently. Making an appointment for a pre-winter tune-up and performing any required maintenance as soon as possible can help ensure that a vehicle is capable of handling winter road conditions.
Carry the right equipment
Many drivers carry special supplies in their trunks in case of a crash. Warm clothing, phone chargers and even warning signs to advise approaching drivers of a disabled vehicle ahead can all help protect people should a crash occur or if they end up going off the road during winter weather. Additionally, drivers may need to make a point of keeping sunglasses in their vehicle all winter. When the sun does come out during the winter months, the glare off of the snow can impact their ability to monitor their surroundings effectively.
Adjust driving habits
One of the most important changes to driving habits a motorist can make is to slow down when there is snow, ice or water from melted precipitation on the road. To comfortably maintain a lower speed, drivers often need to earmark more time for a trip than they would during the warmer seasons. They need to leave earlier to reach their destination on time. They may also need to leave more space between vehicles and to avoid any abrupt maneuvers. Swerving into another lane or turning too quickly could lead to a loss of traction.
People who recognize the various risks associated with winter driving can take small steps that help reduce their overall car crash risk. Drivers also need to know what steps to take if a crash does occur. Having the right support can be invaluable for those who need to hold someone else accountable for causing a winter traffic wreck.