AAA: Prepare Your Vehicle Now for Winter Weather
Before the snow and cold cover the Badger State, now is the time to get vehicles ready for winter weather. Nick Jarmusz, Director of public affairs for AAA, said winter weather can really take its toll on vehicles like car batteries are particularly susceptible to cold temperatures. The chemical reaction inside the battery slows as temperatures drop, making it increasingly difficult to create enough voltage to start a vehicle. AAA also says make sure terminals are tight and clean, have your electric system checked if your lights seem dim or vehicle starts are sluggish. In addition to checking your battery, AAA recommends motorists check their tires, inspect windshield wipers, prevent fuel-line freeze-up by keeping your gas tank at least half-full, and pack an emergency kit.
Additionally, AAA reminds motorist to drive cautiously during winter weather:
- When you see flashers, move over a lane if possible and slow down as you’re passing emergency vehicles. This law applies to any vehicle – including tow trucks – that displays flashing lights and is stationary on the side of the road.
- Before starting out in snowy weather, remove the snow from the entire car so it doesn’t blow onto your windshield or the windshields of other drivers. Make sure your mirrors, lights, brake lights and turn signals are clean.
- To increase your visibility, drive with your low-beam headlights illuminated at all times.
- All passengers should be safely secured with their safety belts fastened. Any items that may become dangerous flying projectiles during a crash should be stored in the trunk.
- Watch for icy surfaces on bridges and intersections, even when the rest of the road seems to be in good condition.
- Always reduce your speed and increase your following distance when poor road or weather conditions prevail.
- Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra seconds to react.
- When changing lanes, avoid cutting in front of trucks, which need more time and distance than passenger vehicles to stop. Hard braking may cause a vehicle to skid.
- Never use cruise control if the roads are wet, slick or snow packed.
- Remember that four-wheel drive helps you to get going quicker, but it won’t help you stop any faster.
- If your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, apply constant, firm pressure to the pedal when stopping. You may feel or hear a thumping sound when the system is engaged.
Source: WRJC.com
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