We are quickly moving towards the close of the year, and towards the official start of winter. Even so, winter raises new safety risks that may impact your ability to drive safely. Therefore, you are likely have to take extra precautions when driving during the winter.
One way to improve your driving risks during the winter is to keep your car in good working order. By having a safe vehicle, you can lower your safety risks when you drive. You might be able to avoid breakdowns, wrecks or the potential that you will harm others. Not only is this good for you as the driver, it is also good for your insurance company and others on the road.
As winter approaches, realize that different forces may impact your car’s reliability. Take the time to make adjustments to your driving habits and your vehicle.
Know How Changing Seasons Affects You
No two locations are alike in how they experience seasonal changes. Some parts of the country may see frequent blizzards. Others have temperatures below zero but little precipitation. Still other areas might see mild temperatures, but frequent precipitation.
You should know how a typical winter impacts your area. This can help you take better precautions to prepare your vehicle for winter driving. Environmental changes during the winter may impact your ability to drive. They may also have different effects on your vehicle and its working systems.
Review Your Auto Insurance
Your auto insurance is an important part of the protection your vehicle needs. Should you experience vehicle damage or personal injuries from various incidents, your coverage can usually help pay to control the problems. It’s imperative for drivers to periodically review their coverage.
Most people review their policies as they come up for renewal. However, there is no wrong time to check your existing coverage. As winter approaches, make sure your policy is adequate for the seasonal risks you may face.
- Ensure your collision and liability coverage are high enough. During winter, a potential for increased bad weather might raise your accident risks.
- Check your comprehensive coverage. This protection kicks in for risks not associated with wrecks. It may cover damage sustained for instances of fire, theft or weather. See if you have (or can obtain) coverage for winter weather typical of your area.
- Your insurance may offer more coverage that could benefit you in case you have car trouble. For example, you may be able to use roadside assistance coverage in case you get stranded in bad weather.
Getting Your Car Ready for Winter
As winter sets in, the changes in weather could have lasting effects on your vehicle. Remember, your car experiences a lot of exposure to the elements. Rain, snow or freezing temperatures may all damage internal and external vehicle systems.
Consider taking your car to your mechanic before the winter arrives in full. They can run maintenance on the vehicle to help prepare it for harsh or changing weather. They may even be able to diagnose small malfunctions that it may be a good idea to repair before the cold sets in.
- Have your oil changed every few thousand miles. Your vehicle manufacturer can usually recommend a specific limit on miles. Changing the oil before winter can help ensure that internal systems have appropriate protection.
- Have your mechanic run a test to ensure the strength of your engine. If your engine doesn’t function well, it may come under undue stress during times of severe weather.
- Your car’s battery may experience sensitivity issues during the winter. For example, during times of cold weather, your battery may use more energy to start your vehicle. This could strain the battery, and hasten its eventual failure. Battery strain can also impact other vehicular system. The typical vehicle needs a battery change every two to five years. If your battery is due for a change, consider getting it fixed before winter sets in.
- If you find your tire treads depleted, consider buying new tires. Routinely check your tire pressure throughout the winter. Also have your shock absorbers, brake system and other control mechanisms inspected. Some drivers have snow tires installed on their vehicles during the winter. These practices can help drivers better control their vehicles on roads affected by weather.
- Check your vehicle seals and HVAC system. If either malfunction, this could cause undue strain on other internal systems.
As you approach winter, do what you can to keep your vehicle safe. Then, once you hit the road, drive in manners that take existing hazards into account. While your auto insurance can help you in the event of an accident, the better approach is to prevent such risks. Therefore, careful preventative maintenance may help you stay safe on winter-affected roadways. Never forget to talk to your auto insurance agent about how you could improve your coverage for winter driving.
Do you need auto coverage? Call Amigo Insurance Agency, Inc at 877-999-2644 for a Chicago car insurance quote.