Avoid These 5 Dangerous Winter Driving Mistakes
Winter is indeed the perfect season to enjoy with friends and family. There’s never a shortage of things to do in the winter, from snowboarding to just sipping hot chocolate while talking with loved ones. However, despite the fun activities it brings, we can’t deny how the roads are not in their safest condition during this season. Streets are covered with snow, and roads are slippery. Even when you’re a skilled driver, driving in this condition is risky. Therefore, it is very important to know the lapses you often overlook when driving in the winter because, as they say, better safe than sorry. So, we asked advice from the driving experts on what these mistakes are, and here are the most common ones:
Not Replacing Your Tires
Driving with standard tires in the winter is a serious mistake. There are specialized tires made especially for winter to keep you safe. In freezing temperatures, winter tires are designed to provide optimum traction on snowy and icy surfaces, and they’re particularly important if the surface is covered in a thick layer of snow. With winter tires in place, you can avoid wheel spin and maintain full control of your vehicle so that you can stop, start, or maneuver as needed.
Not Getting Auto Insurance
Aside from the many benefits of getting auto insurance, it is also legally required to have one if you own a vehicle. It protects you financially in the event of an accident, as well as other drivers, pedestrians, and passengers in your vehicle —and as we already know, roads during winter can be very risky. Therefore, there’s a higher chance of getting into accidents.
There are offers for a broad scope of auto insurance coverages, customizing the limits, deductibles, and features to address your specific situation. Whether you’re a family of six with two cars or single with one car, you are provided with a wide range of options. Your auto policy can be designed to include:
- Liability Coverage
- Coverage for Your Vehicle
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
Regardless of what you choose, having auto insurance will certainly protect you and your vehicle in the event of an accident.
Relentless Using Cruise Command
Another winter driving mistake you may be making is relentlessly using the cruise command. The cruise control on an automobile has no sense of how slick the road is. Therefore, it is best to maintain complete control of the gas pedal, brakes, and steering to ensure a safe drive in hazardous weather.
However, the cruise control could keep you from accelerating if the wheels lose grip on the slick ground and begin to spin. You won’t be able to stop the vehicle or steer it into safety. Use cruise control on highways in good weather conditions only. It’s best to leave your car’s speed up to your judgment, not the limits of technology.
Panicking in the Event of a Skid
Among the worst mistakes any driver can make panicking in the event of a skid. Panicking can cause you to overcorrect, or worse yet, exacerbate the problem by locking your wheels and sending you into a spin.
You should immediately ease off of the accelerator if one tire locks up as you make a turn due to slipping on ice. If you skid, keep both hands on the wheel until you stop sliding (skidding). Do not brake if you notice your vehicle is moving in a direction that you had not intended. If you immediately notice your vehicle moving in a bad direction, gently ease off of the accelerator.
It is a no-brainer precaution to keep your phone out of your hand and check everything before driving. Keep your eyes on the road and remember, the best present you can give your family this holiday is your presence and safety.
About Daniels Insurance, Inc.
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.