Are you in charge of a fleet of vehicles? This could include trucks, vans, SUVs, cars, semis, etc. Do you feel you are adequately prepared for winter? In addition to assuring yourself that all your drivers have the winter driving skills they need, you’ll want to make sure all the vehicles in your fleet are prepared for the coldest months of the year. We’re going to include some information here regarding safe winter driving. Even if you don’t own a fleet of vehicles, but just have one or two cars in the family, this is still good advice.
In addition to driving safely and winterizing your vehicle, make sure your auto insurance is up to date. The last thing you need when you slide into another car is to be lacking where insurance is concerned. Don’t set yourself up for a negative experience when a winter collision is already bad enough.
Check out these winter driving tips.
Frequent Washing
Built-up moisture, snow, and road salt can cause a car to rust. When this happens, premature aging goes right along with it. As often as you can, take your vehicle to the carwash.
Fog Free Windows
Before you start driving, run your vehicle for 10 to 15 minutes to get the engine warm. To defrost the windows, turn your defroster/heat on full blast. (You may want to consider a spray product that is anti-fogging, as well.)
Ice and Snow Removal
To brush away snow, use a snow broom that is nonabrasive or a foam brush. Here’s a list of additional ice/snow removal tips:
- Don’t use a screwdriver or hot water to remove ice and frost.
- Wiper blades and nozzles should be clear and dry.
- Taillights and headlights should be functional and clean.
- For snow removal, do the windshield last. Working your way down, start snow clearance from the vehicle’s top.
- Before you start removing snow, turn on the rear and front defrosters.
- To prevent blockage, remove all snow from the tailpipe.
GPS and Route Planning
Use a GPS system, even if you feel you know the route because it can help you stay updated on slowdowns, congestion, accidents, disabled vehicles, and more. Particularly in winter, avoid dangerous or congested routes whenever possible. Give yourself extra time, just in case.
Fuel
At all times, keep at least half a tank of gas in your vehicle. For one thing, you don’t want to get stranded by running out of gas. But, keeping your tank half full will also help discourage moisture buildup within your tank. No one needs moisture buildup during the coldest months of the year! It turns to ice.
Additional Tips
For safe driving and a winterized vehicle, follow these additional tips:
- Wiper fluid should be winterized.
- Surprisingly enough, your cooling system should be checked, even in winter. Freezing can actually be caused by using the wrong coolant.
- Your battery should be tested to make sure it’s adequate and will take you through winter dependably. Look for corrosion on the terminals, as well.
- Emergency kits should be kept in vehicles, particularly in winter.
- The tires should always be inflated properly, and, before winter hits, they should be rotated. Replace tires that are worn.
Once Your Vehicle or Vehicles and Drivers Are Ready – Check Your Insurance
We, at K&N Insurance Brokerage, can help you find home, renters, automobile, condo insurance, and more, to protect you, your home, vehicle, and family against the unthinkable.
Get an easy, quick, and free insurance quote online, or call us for an instant quote at 866-643-1567.
