For millions of people, driving in the winter is a huge challenge. If you live in St. Louis, Missouri, you know all about the frigid temperatures and significant snowfall that goes hand-in-hand with the winter season. To diminish risk, there are many options for safer winter driving.
Proper Servicing
Before facing harsh road conditions, have your vehicle serviced by a qualified mechanic. The mechanic will check for any parts, hoses, leaks, and more that need replacing or repair. In addition, the mechanic will assess the condition and functionality of the battery and check the level of anti-freeze. Even if the radiator is full, your mechanic may recommend a better grade of coolant, formulated specifically for extreme temperatures.
Other things the mechanic will check in preparing your vehicle for winter driving include windshield wiper fluid, wiper blades and defrosters, and the condition of the tires, among other things. If the tires are old or worn, the mechanic will recommend new tires. In fact, depending on how much driving you do and the type, you may need to have snow tires installed on your vehicle. The bottom line is that during servicing, the mechanic will make sure your automobile is in proper working condition for the upcoming winter.
Things That You Can Do
There are things that you can do for safer winter driving as well. As an example, plan out your route for travel and let someone know. From there, check both weather and road conditions to determine whether you should stay home or perhaps take a different route. Along with those tips, consider the following:
- Prepare an emergency kit to keep in your car. The kit should contain items like a shovel, flashlight, bottled water, Army knife, matches/lighter, candle, snacks, blankets/sleeping bag, extra socks, gloves and hats, jumper cables, road flares, and so on.
- Insist that everyone buckles up.
- Never text and drive.
- Avoid alcohol consumption and the use of any illicit drugs, as well as prescription medication that might affect driving ability.
- Keep your fuel tank full.
- Take your time.
If you become stuck or are in an accident, make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of any snow, dirt, or debris that would cause poisonous carbon monoxide to fill the cabin of the vehicle. In addition, unless there is risk of fire, always stay with the vehicle until help arrives.
Depend on Professional Limo Services
Another viable option for getting around St. Louis during the winter is to hire a chauffeur from a reputable limousine company. Having experience and special training, a chauffeur creates peace of mind that you will arrive to your destination safely.
Tags: travel tips