As Game of Thrones fans and Michigan residents know, winter is coming, and we want you to be prepared when it does. We’ve compiled a list of 5 tips for safely driving on those snowy roads so you can avoid placing a claim this winter.
1. Don’t Drive
This one might sound dumb, but it is the only 100% effective way to avoid a car accident during the winter, stay home, make some hot chocolate, and put your mind at ease knowing you and your car are safe.
2. Remove Snow and Ice from Your Vehicle
When you inevitably need to drive somewhere in the winter, the first thing you should do before even getting behind the wheel is clean off your car. Start it up, put the defroster on high on the maximum temperature and brush off all the snow from the hood, roof, windshield, windows, and mirrors, and scrape off any ice. Cleaning your windows from the inside will also help them defrost faster.
3. Drive Slow
You’ve removed the snow and ice from your car, and you’re ready to hit the road. Take your time, winter driving isn’t about speed, it’s about safety. Give yourself plenty of room between vehicles in front of you and beside you, this will help you out if your car starts to slide when you hit the brakes. Gently tapping the brakes and gas will also help your car gradually slow down, which reduces sliding. It’s all about finesse and patience when driving in the winter.
4. Minimize Distractions
Alright, you’re slowly making our way to your destination, driving safely, and your phone rings. Who is it? What do they need? Who calls people anymore? It must be important. We promise, no phone call is as important as your safety. Especially in the winter, your focus should be on the road and what is happening outside of your windshield.
5. Sand is Your Friend
You’ve ignored the call from Aunt Kathy, and you’re locked in on the road. The thing about Michigan though, we get a lot of snow. You stopped at a red light to turn right, and the snow is 6 inches deep on all sides, you were driving safely so you had to stop, and now you can’t get going again. This is where sand or kitty litter comes in to save the day. Place some of that grainy goodness under the drive wheels (usually the front wheels, unless you have a 4WD or AWD vehicle), straighten the wheel, and accelerate slowly. Try to avoid spinning the wheels too much as this can cause your car to dig deeper into the snow and get you more stuck. Add sand/kitty litter as needed and continue on your way!
Thanks to these tips, you and your car made it safely to your destination, claim free. We hope these tips were helpful, and we hope you have a safe and healthy winter!
In the event that you do need to file a claim, call our office at 248-363-5746 OR visit our website at https://www.ins-advisors.com/companies-we-represent , find your insurance carrier, and call the claims number.