Winter is coming. For residents of New Jersey, cold weather means ice, snowfall and a higher probability of being involved in a car accident. Fortunately, we still have several weeks before cold weather arrives, and there is time to make sure our vehicles are ready. These winter safety tips may help.
Six Winter Safety Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Cold Weather
- Check your tires: Check your tire pressure regularly throughout the winter months. Also make sure the tread is not too shallow by using the “quarter trick.” You can check the depth by taking a quarter, turning it upside down and sticking it into your tire’s tread. If George Washington’s head is covered by the tread pattern, your tread depth is fine. Depending on weather conditions, snow or all-weather tires may be necessary.
- Make sure the heater and defroster work: If your defroster is broken, it is essential to seek repairs. The defroster is necessary for maintaining visibility while driving in cold weather.
- Carry winter equipment: Make sure you keep an ice scraper with you once cold weather starts. It is not only dangerous to drive with ice on your windshield, it is against the law in New Jersey. You may also want to carry an emergency kit, blankets, jumper cables and a flashlight.
- Check your wiper blades: If your windshield wiper blades are in poor working order, they will be unable to clear your windshield of frost.
- Change your vehicle fluids: Unless you already know how to change your oil and antifreeze for cold weather, it might be best to seek help from a mechanic. Make sure the antifreeze and oil you use is rated for winter conditions.
- Check your brakes: Check your brakes for wear and tear. Also make sure your vehicle has enough brake fluid.
In addition to making sure your vehicle is ready for winter, there are also tips that you should follow for driving safely in cold weather. Follow us on Facebook for future winter safety tips on how you can reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.
The New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Keefe Law Firm can help victims of car accidents hold negligent motorists accountable.