With the winter season well on its way, it is a good time to start thinking about winterizing your vehicle. There are many benefits of doing so, including:
- More control over your vehicle during inclement weather
- Better preparedness in case of an emergency
- Increased tire traction
- Improved visibility
- Reduced chance of getting stranded
- Decreased risk of your car components freezing
- Heightened safety in case of an emergency
Here’s how you can prepare your car for snowy driving conditions:
Change the Oil
This may seem like a no-brainer, but this critical piece of maintenance is often overlooked. Be sure your car receives regular oil changes so that it always has the right viscosity.
Replace the Windshield Wipers
There’s nothing scarier than not being able to see while driving. It’s important that your windshield wipers work properly before the first winter storm.
Specialized winter blades are strong enough to push snow around and can even scrape off some of the ice.
Don’t forget your rear windshield wiper if you have one.
Check the Battery
If you are unsure what condition your car’s battery is in, have a professional take a look and replace it if needed. Remember, if your car won’t start, you’ll have no heat. In an especially cold winter storm, you definitely don’t want to be stuck without heat.
Consider All-Terrain Tires
If you are concerned about your vehicle’s traction, all-terrain tires may be a worthwhile investment. You can keep them on your car year-round and they provide significantly more traction than standard tires.
Check the Antifreeze
It’s critical that your car’s antifreeze/coolant mixture is where it needs to be. If any of the liquid in your vehicle freezes, it will expand and can rupture a number of hoses.
Keep an Emergency Kit
In case of an emergency, it’s a good idea to keep the following items in your vehicle:
- Warm coat, pants, gloves, boots, hat
- Emergency or standard blanket
- Water and non-perishable food
- Quality ice scraper
- Shovel
- Flashlight
- Flares
- Jumper cables
- Automotive tool kit
- Tire gauge
- Functioning spare tire
- First aid kit
- Tire chains
We’re Here for the Injured
Not everyone chooses to winterize their vehicles, and this leads to a number of accidents each year. If you’re injured in a crash due to another driver’s negligence, we’re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call the Ozone Park lawyers at The Cassisi Law Firm today at 718-441-5050 to speak with an experienced attorney about your case.