By: Discount Tire

These factors remind us why it's important to prepare your vehicle for winter travel. Here are some safety tips to ensure that your family is ready for wintertime expeditions:

Install Winter Tires

Did you know that if you can see your breath, you should consider installing winter tires on your vehicle? This is especially true if you live in an area that sees harsh winter conditions, such as high snowfall and black ice.

Winter tires provide levels of traction that all-season and summer tires can’t provide in winter conditions. While all-wheel drive can be helpful, it only helps provide forward momentum in snow and doesn’t aid in stopping or steering the vehicle.

Get a Tune-up & Air Pressure Check

Before any long road trips, visit your mechanic for a tune-up and other routine maintenance for your vehicle. Have it checked for any leaks, bad parts, needed repairs and replacements.

Also, be sure that your tires are properly inflated. You can find the recommended pressure on your vehicle’s tire placard (usually located on the driver’s door) or in your owner’s manual.

Check Your Spare Tire

Be sure to check your spare tire, if your car is equipped with one. Having a fully functioning spare is important at all times, but never more than during hazardous winter months. When you inspect your spare, it is recommended that you check the tread depth, air pressure, and age of the tire.

Keep Your Distance

Vehicles are not as quick to react in snow, so be sure to drive slowly and keep a longer following distance between you and other vehicles. This allows for more response time and helps you make more controlled stops and starts.

Stay Home

The number one way to stay safe is to stay home. Even with the best preparation, all possibilities cannot be accounted for. If it’s not necessary for you to go out, it’s best to avoid driving until road conditions improve.

Winter driving is inevitable, but winter safety is a choice. Following these tips will get you and your family prepared for safe driving when the time comes.