Wow, we sure did enjoy an amazing extended summer this year. It may have come late but at least it stuck around for a while. Unfortunately, you can't slow down time and we are now approaching the winter solstice.
With December right around the corner, we need to take a moment and prepare for driving in the colder weather.
Let's start with some of the more obvious tips:
Tires - Check your tires for a couple of things. First, check your traction and your air pressure. Second, if you have chains get them out and make sure you know how to use them and that they fit. You don't want to be in the middle of a snow storm outside trying to figure out how to use your chains. Or even worse find out they don't fit.
Winter Maintenance "Check-Up" - Take the time to check your battery, fluids (anti-freeze and windshield cleaner fluid), lights and wipers. There is nothing worse then a dead battery or wipers that smudge the dirty snow getting tossed on you from the car in front of you.
A lot of college students travel over the mountain passes during the holidays. If you have kids that will be traveling, take the time to make sure they are on top of their winter vehicle maintenance. Don't just assume they are on top of it. I remember my college days and worrying about my tires wasn't exactly a main priority.
The next thing is to think about what we should carry in our car during the winter. We should always have a survival kit in our car, but during the winter it is even more important. We should also have flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, gloves and boots in our vehicles. The Washington Department of Transportation has a great flyer about things you should carry in your car found here. I have also attached a copy of the .pdf file to the post.
I am sure there are many more tips about driving in winter conditions. If you have some you would like to share, please comment below.
I hope we all have a wonderful and safe holiday season!
The bitterness of poor coverage lingers long after the sweet price is forgotten.
Joe Urvina is an insurance agent located in Gig Harbor, WA.
www.facebook.com/UrvinaInsurance
jurvina@farmersagent.com
Twitter - @UrvinaInsurance
(253) 858-5881
