Preparing Your Car for Winter Weather

With the winter season on the horizon, many people are beginning to prepare for the snow and ice that comes with it. One of the things to consider when getting ready for winter is how to properly prepare your vehicle for inclement weather to avoid hazards and crashes. Making sure your car is properly tuned up can help ensure safety and prevent accidents.

Winter weather factors such as limited visibility, slippery roads, and cold temperatures can increase the risk for an accident, increase travel time, and cause delays. According to statistics provided by the Federal Highway Administration, between 2002 and 2012, wet pavement accounted for 74% of the weather-related crashes. If it is snowing, hailing, or raining and the roads become icy, it is advisable to not travel unless absolutely necessary to avoid the risks associated with winter weather.

Consider these tips in mind to prepare your car for winter weather:

• Take your car in for a tune-up and make sure that brakes, heating system, windshield wipers, lights, and the exhaust system are working properly
• Take your car in for regular oil changes
• Keep at least a half tank of gas in your car at all times
• Make sure your car is stocked with ice scrapers, jumper cables, blankets, bottled water, flashlights, and flares in the event an emergency should occur

However, even if you use precautions, accidents can still arise. If you have been in a car accident that resulted from someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a personal injury attorney who can best advise you of your legal remedies and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Call Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP at 212-571-7171.