Make Sure Your Car Is Winter Ready

 Posted on December 20, 2017 in Car Accidents

Every time a person gets in a vehicle, he or she is are taking a risk. Although we often do not think about it, driving or riding in a motor vehicle is a dangerous activity. Advances in vehicle safety have helped, but car accidents do still happen. There is no way to completely eliminate the risk of being in a car accident, but making sure your car is ready for the winter is one way you can lessen it.

Experts suggest that drivers take the following steps in order to keep their car maintained adequately for the winter:

• Read the owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule;
• Keep your gas tank filled and add a bottle of fuel deicer in your tank once a month during the coldest months. This can help prevent moisture in the fuel line from freezing, which can cause issues;
• Have your battery checked and consider keeping a set of jumper cables in your car. If your car has had problems such as stalling, hard starts, rough idling, or reduced power, get it serviced immediately. Cold weather can make these problems worse;
• Examine tires for adequate tread depth and check that there are not tears, cuts, or uneven wearing. Do not forget to check your spare tire as well.
• Replace dirty air, fuel, and PCV filters;
• Get your oil and oil filter changed regularly. This is a step that many people forget or wait too long to take. Regular oil changes are essential in protecting your engine;
• Make sure that the heater and defroster work correctly. A nonworking defroster can become a serious hazard when a driver cannot see out of their windshield due to frost. Always carry an ice scraper;
• Flush and refill your cooling system at the frequency dictated by your owner’s manual. A mix of antifreeze and water is recommended, and the exact mix may vary by your vehicle’s make and model;
• Replace old windshield wiper blades and keep the washing fluid filled, as you will use more of it in the winter.
• Have your brakes and transmission checked regularly. Do not wait until there is a serious problem to have brakes serviced; and
• Always carry an emergency kit with you. In it pack blankets, warm clothes, drinking water, snacks, flashlights, extra cell phone chargers, flares, reflectors, and sand or kitty litter.

Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident?

At Schwartz Injury Law, we understand just how significantly an auto accident can impact your life, and we believe strongly that victims deserve full and fair compensation. If you have been injured in a car accident, you need an attorney who will fight for you. Schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Orland Park car accident attorneys. Call 708-888-2160 today.

Source:

http://www.ase.com/News-Events/Publications/Glove-Box-Tips/Getting-Your-Vehicle-Ready-For-Winter.aspx