It’s no secret that when winter weather hits, roads become dangerous and keeping your car out of the ditch when the ice and snow forms is no easy task.

While it may be common knowledge that “taking it slow” is advised, you may not think of other ways to use caution until it’s too late.

The team at Insure On The Spot have taken the time to create a checklist of winter driving tips you can review, year after year.

Use these ideas to advantage before you drive so that they are front of mind when you trek out into the cold.

Know the risks

Being aware of weather severity is the first step in preparing for winter driving. If you can, take the best precaution possible:

 Stay home – Ask yourself if that trip outside is really needed. Spend time with family or complete your tasks at your residence. Even if you’re not facing a snowstorm, you could still wind up in an accident if you’re not careful.

 Acknowledge your surroundings – If your area received a storm or extreme cold the night before, an encounter with ice or patches of roadway that haven’t been treated is very possible. Maybe you’re driving while snow plows are still out clearing the snow. If so, keep plenty of distance, and if you intend to pass, do so with caution.

 Be on the lookout – Stranded vehicles and motorists may be seeking help. Animals, such as deer, may also be more prevalent, as the nature of their surroundings has changed. Stay alert while driving to avoid an accident.

 Take extra precautions – Driving slowly is part of avoiding accidents in the winter, but there is more to it than that.

– Stay further back from vehicles than normal to give you and other motorists more space.
– Brake early and often, especially at stop signs, stop lights and intersections.
– Know you’re route ahead of time and avoid driving on unfamiliar roads, if possible.
– If driving a substantial distance, take breaks and alternate drivers if you’re traveling with others.

Follow rules of the road

Drivers should always adhere to local, state and federal driving laws, especially while driving during the winter:

 Seat belts on
 Cell phones down
 Don’t drive faster than conditions allow
 No impaired driving
 Use car seats and proper restraints for children

Emergency Situations

If you are involved in an accident and need help, CALL 911 as soon as possible and give as much information to the dispatcher as possible.

Other tips to follow during an emergency:

 Avoid injury by taking your time to free yourself or, if you are injured, remain calm and listen to direction from authorities after you’ve called for help.
 Don’t leave your vehicle and go searching for help, especially if visibility is low. You could be injured or even killed, if struck by a passing motorist who doesn’t see you.
 Keep warm using blankets, extra clothing or anything else in your vehicle to help maintain your body temperature. If you’re stuck and can keep your car running, make sure to be aware of how much fuel you have left and conserve it.

Receive Quality Auto Insurance This Winter

We all do our best to avoid accidents and dangerous situations, but sometimes, crashes happen. Be prepared for the road this winter with an insurance plan that meets your needs. Insure on the Spot has options for everyone, and we have experience, serving over 1 million people in the Chicago-land area. It takes as little as two minutes to receive a free insurance quote. Contact us today for more information and see that you can receive insurance as easy as 1,2,3!