Dallas-Fort Worth area meteorologist are warning of potential winter weather. That can mean hazardous conditions for drivers for our neighbors in and around Garland, Mesquite, Rockwall, Rowlett, Prosper, Terrell, Richardson, Plano and the metroplex. Even for the most experienced drivers, any inclement weather can be challenging, stressful and dangerous. So, our team at Randall Reed’s Prestige Ford wanted to share a few quick reminders to keep your car running right and to keep you safer out on the roads.
Inclement Weather & Roadways
Did you know – and we are not factoring the snow or ice yet – the AAA states that wet pavement alone contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic crashes each year. So, what does that mean when snow and ice come into the mix? Winter storms, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter, per research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
Quick Cold Weather Reminders
- Stay put! Don’t venture out until you have to.
- Take it slow with room to roll. Not only do you need to slow down, you need to leave extra room to both start and stop.
- Brake in the know. Make sure you know how your brakes work – not only in dry conditions, but inclement so you react accordingly.
- No cruisin’. If surfaces are slippery, it is not a good idea to use cruise control.
- Fuel up! You never know what could happen, so make sure you have at least ½ tank – or better yet – a full tank of fuel.
- Power pack. It’s always a good idea to have a bag with essential with you in case of emergency. Items can include: glass scraper, umbrella, flashlight, water, blanket/warm clothing, etc. P.S. Have basic car gear for a breakdown (spare, jack, jumper cables, etc.).
Mind Your Maintenance
Before you hit the road, Prestige Ford’s Service Department wants to remind you it is key to consider what you can do now to stay safe and seen, especially in poor weather conditions. AAA says you should make sure to replace windshield wiper inserts that leave streaks or don’t clear the glass in a single swipe. Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals are properly functioning so other drivers will see you during downpours. Turn on your headlights whenever you drive.
Treading Thin?
When did you last look at your tires? Do you know if you have a good tire tread depth? Are you checking to see if they are over or under inflated? These are all factors to big factors in whether or not your vehicle has good traction, which is especially important on wet road. Check your car, truck or SUV’s tire pressure, including your spare, monthly. Make sure to do so when your tires are cold, and not after you’ve been on the road for a long time. When in doubt, bring them into Prestige Ford in Garland (serving Mesquite, Rockwall, greater Dallas, Plano, Richardson) to be check out for free*.
Slow Your Roll
This is a no brainer. When it’s icy or wet, you need to slow down. One it can help reduce your vehicles chance of hydroplaning, which can become an issue with water on the ground. AAA says with as little as 1/12 inch of water on the road, tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road. So, drivers should reduce their speed to correspond to the amount of water on the roadway. At speeds as low as 35 mph, new tires can still lose some contact with the roadway. Slowing down can also allow more time to react to a situation. Which leads to another important tip, allow ample space between you and the vehicles around you. Wet weather requires more braking time and reaction time. So a little extra space can help you be in a safer place as you travel in less than desirable conditions.
Skid Control
The AAA shared that no matter the experience, any driving can skin out in certain conditions. If you ever find yourself in that situation, here are quick steps the AAA list on their website:
1. Continue to look and steer in the direction in which the driver wants the car to go.
2. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this will further upset the vehicle’s balance and make it harder to control.
Yes, we know. That is easier said than done, but AAA goes on to share, “Don’t panic, and avoid slamming on the brakes to maintain control.”
You can’t control others and their actions on the road, especially on bad weather days, but you can prep, slow down and take actions to help keep yourself as safe as possible.
Prestige Ford is Here to Help!
If you need your vehicle checked out or need new tires, brakes, batteries, wipers, etc. our team would be happy to assist. If you’re simply ready for a new Ford car, truck or SUV, take the short drive on 635 to Garland Road and Shiloh. We have great specials on a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles. You can learn more about our Dallas-Fort Worth area Ford dealership at www.PrestigeFord.com!
Be careful out there, Prestige Ford friends.
Source: https://exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/#.XjmuoC2ZNTY