Winter is on its way and that means fog, rain, ice, and snow are on the horizon as well. Slippery roads and poor visibility can make this a dangerous time for pedestrians, drivers, and other vehicle operators alike. The good news is that there are some simple precautions you can take to minimize the risk of accidents and industries.
This winter season, before you get into your vehicle, take a moment to make sure everything in and around your vehicle is in good condition and working properly.

• Are the windshield and side windows clear?

• Do the windshield wipers work?

• Are the blades in good condition?

• Can you see in all the mirrors?

• Are the headlights clean enough to allow for proper visibility?

• Do the tail and the brake lights work?

• Do the emergency lights work?

• Does the defroster work or is there so much on the dash that the defroster couldn’t possibly work?

• Do the tires have good tread and adequate pressure?

• Are the brakes working properly?

• Is there more than a quarter tank of gas?

• Do you have emergency or repair equipment in the vehicle, including flashlights, flares, fire extinguishers, and chains where applicable?

Checking all of these things before when winter weather strikes and even before can make your driving experience easier and safer. Remember, it is also important to reduce your driving speed when on wet, muddy, oily, or icy roads and to be alert for pedestrians and wildlife. Winter is inevitable and nothing can be done to avoid it, but preventative maintenance and extra caution can be vital in preventing accidents and staying safe on the road.