Tips for Driving in Winter Weather
We've already had a few snow storms make their way through the area and more may be right around the corner! Our car dealership at the Lake of the Ozarks knows it's not always realistic to stay home when the roads are covered and that's what this week's blog is all about. We've included everything you'll need to know if you're taking to the roads in winter weather.
Increase following distance when roads are covered. Your vehicle may not have its normal reaction time when the roads are slick. Remember this when you are around other vehicles on the road. Allow plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of or beside you.
Avoid coming to a stop when going uphill. If the road is slick, it can be tough for your vehicle to start moving once it's come to a stop. The traction your tires need to propel your vehicle forward simply may not be there due to ice, slush, or snow getting in the way. If at all possible and safe, avoid coming to a complete stop.
Before you leave home, ensure you have necessities available in your car. Blankets, coats, gloves, and hats are important to keep everyone in your vehicle warm if you do get stuck. Also consider a having a first aid kit, flashlight, road flares or a safety cone readily available. Lastly, don't forget to throw in a few non-perishable food items and water to ensure you and any passengers don't get too hungry if you are stuck for a bit. It's a good idea to consider throwing in a shovel or sand to help your tires get traction on the slick ground.
1) Stop. Even if you can drive away, you'll need to gather some information before driving away from the scene.
2) Make sure everyone is okay. If there are injuries that need attention, call for help.
3) Exchange information. Get insurance and contact information from the other drivers involved. If possible, try to document the accident and take photo evidence of any damage due to the collision.
4) File a claim with your insurance company. Once you file a report with your insurance, they will be able to best direct your next steps.
5) Repair your vehicle. To get your vehicle looking and performing like new, you'll likely want to get it repaired in a timely manner.
Slush - When a snow, ice, or rain mixture gets on the road, it is known as slush. This slick combination can make it very difficult to control your vehicle. It can actually start to suck your vehicle one way or another if you hit it at the wrong angle.
Ice - When the road has ice on it, it can be very hard to control a vehicle. It's slick and often times leaves your vehicle sliding on the road.
Black Ice - Black ice has the same consequences of ice, but it is often hard to see. Its transparent appearance can make it nearly impossible to see that it's on the pavement. The road may appear to be dry but a patch of dry ice can send your vehicle spinning out of control.
Before you get on the roads, consider checking the MoDOT Traveler Map for current road conditions.
Sales: 573.317.4191
Winter Driving Tips:
Slow down and take your time when driving in winter weather. Slow and steady is key when driving on snow or ice covered roads. Any sudden movement can send your vehicle spinning or sliding out of control.Increase following distance when roads are covered. Your vehicle may not have its normal reaction time when the roads are slick. Remember this when you are around other vehicles on the road. Allow plenty of distance between you and the vehicle in front of or beside you.
Avoid coming to a stop when going uphill. If the road is slick, it can be tough for your vehicle to start moving once it's come to a stop. The traction your tires need to propel your vehicle forward simply may not be there due to ice, slush, or snow getting in the way. If at all possible and safe, avoid coming to a complete stop.
Before you leave home, ensure you have necessities available in your car. Blankets, coats, gloves, and hats are important to keep everyone in your vehicle warm if you do get stuck. Also consider a having a first aid kit, flashlight, road flares or a safety cone readily available. Lastly, don't forget to throw in a few non-perishable food items and water to ensure you and any passengers don't get too hungry if you are stuck for a bit. It's a good idea to consider throwing in a shovel or sand to help your tires get traction on the slick ground.
Steps to Take if You're Involved in a Collision:
Unfortunately, even the most prepared and cautious drivers are sometimes involved in an accident due to winter weather. Here are a few steps to keep in mind:1) Stop. Even if you can drive away, you'll need to gather some information before driving away from the scene.
2) Make sure everyone is okay. If there are injuries that need attention, call for help.
3) Exchange information. Get insurance and contact information from the other drivers involved. If possible, try to document the accident and take photo evidence of any damage due to the collision.
4) File a claim with your insurance company. Once you file a report with your insurance, they will be able to best direct your next steps.
5) Repair your vehicle. To get your vehicle looking and performing like new, you'll likely want to get it repaired in a timely manner.
Road Condition Breakdown:
Snow - When snow has covered a road, it can make it difficult to drive. Take it slow and avoid sudden movements when driving on snow. If snow is packed down enough, it can be like driving on ice.Slush - When a snow, ice, or rain mixture gets on the road, it is known as slush. This slick combination can make it very difficult to control your vehicle. It can actually start to suck your vehicle one way or another if you hit it at the wrong angle.
Ice - When the road has ice on it, it can be very hard to control a vehicle. It's slick and often times leaves your vehicle sliding on the road.
Black Ice - Black ice has the same consequences of ice, but it is often hard to see. Its transparent appearance can make it nearly impossible to see that it's on the pavement. The road may appear to be dry but a patch of dry ice can send your vehicle spinning out of control.
Before you get on the roads, consider checking the MoDOT Traveler Map for current road conditions.
About Our Auto Body Repair Service:
The safety and performance of your vehicle is nothing to gamble on. At our Lake of the Ozarks vehicle repair shop, we have GM and ASE Certified technicians. Our certified techs are constantly taking the most up-to-date training available. We use only genuine original equipment manufacturer parts when applicable. We can repair your vehicle to factory specifications. We work as a liaison between you and your insurance company to make the paperwork as easy as possible. We have loaner cars available on site if you need another vehicle to complete your daily commute until your vehicle is repaired. Bring your vehicle to us and rest-assured your work order will be completed properly!Drive Safely this Winter
Now that you have these winter driving tips under your belt, you can feel more confident the next time snow or ice starts to fall from the sky. Here at Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC, we want our customers to stay as safe as possible when driving and to avoid travel when the roads are covered, (if at all possible). If you do need to venture out, keep the above tips in mind for a safe winter driving experience! And don't forget, if you do get some vehicle damage this winter, we offer collision repair in Camdenton, MO to get your ride looking like new again!
Hulett Chevrolet Buick GMC - That's The Way We Do It At Hulett!
513 N. Business Route 5
Camdenton, MO 65020
Sales: 573.317.4191
Service: 573.317.4195
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