You’ll probably do a lot of driving this holiday season. Whether it’s going to your parents’ home or just driving from one party to another, you’re going to find yourself behind the wheel a lot. Holidays also mean winter so you need to ensure that you seriously take note of these safety tips from your Volkswagen dealership in Albuquerque, NM.
- Secure the Right Insurance
This might seem unnecessary but, a trusted Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM suggests that you get the right insurance coverage in the event of an accident or any weather damage. Your insurance will protect you financially and ensure that no heavy unexpected expenses occur.
- Service Your Car Before Hitting the Road
Cars need to be specially prepared for winter. Winter takes a toll on everything from the oil to the tires to the lights. Though you can do your own checks at home, it might be safer to take your car to your regular mechanic, especially if you’re traveling great distances on icy roads. Your mechanic will be checking for the following:
- Wiper blades need to be functioning at an optimal level. If they are leaving smudge trails or making sounds, then it’s time to change them.
- The battery connectors should be clean and not corroded.
- Brakes should be smooth. When depressed, they shouldn’t feel spongy, or be making any unpleasant sounds.
- The oil should be checked and changed if necessary. In colder climes, the oil can thicken, making it difficult for your engine to run properly.
- Change into winter tires. The tires should be properly inflated so that treads will be able to grip the roads properly even in icy conditions
- Prepare an Emergency Kit
Emergency kits are a common practice these days. Make sure the kit has everything you would need in the event of an accident during winter. Pack a bag with the following and leave it in the trunk of your car:
- A spare blanket
- Warm set of clothes
- Gloves and snow boots
- Flares
- Ice scrapers
- A shovel
- Sand or salt to serve as traction if your wheels get stuck
- Flashlights
- A charged cell phone and a cell phone charger
- First-aid kit
- Water and food
- Hard candies to keep your mouth from drying out.
- Always have a spare tire, car jack, and wrench in your care in case of a flat tire
- Plan Your Routes Ahead of Time
Knowing how to get to where you’re going will take away some of the anxiety that you may have. Road trips can be long and exhausting but knowing exactly where to turn off and where all the rest stops are means you know when toilets are coming up, and where to go in the event of an emergency. Make sure you inform someone close to you about your traveling route and when you should arrive. This is an added layer of security in the event of dangerous weather.
For further tips on how to stay safe during a road trip especially in winter, check out your Volkswagen dealer in Albuquerque, NM for more tips.
