At Kirmac Collision & Autoglass, we are committed to being your top source for comprehensive car care. Through our expert collision & autoglass repair services, our goal is to get your vehicle looking and running as good as new after an accident. We’re pleased to offer many convenient locations including Maple Ridge and Schoolhouse (Coquitlam), so quality auto service is never far. We are pleased to bring you the following tips for driving in winter and being safe on black ice.
Preparing Your Car
Winter can be one of the most dangerous times of year for drivers. With reduced visibility, less daylight, and the slippery roads due to snow and ice, driving in winter should be taken seriously. You can prepare your vehicle for winter by doing the following:
- Inspect your tires for wear and ensure that you have adequate tread to get the most traction on slippery winter roads.
- Check your tire pressure and fill up at an air pump (or have a mechanic do so) if needed.
- Get a battery inspection (fluids, cables) to ensure your car’s battery is good to go for the season. Winter weather can lessen your battery’s capacity.
- Keep up with regular maintenance like oil changes and fluid checks.
Driving on Black Ice
Black ice is the cause of countless auto collisions in winter, and it’s because it’s so hard to spot. Black ice usually looks like water or wet spots on the pavement. Unlike snow, which offers some tire traction, black ice is completely slippery and smooth, meaning your tires will simply coast over it. One of the best things you can do to practice safe driving in winter is to be aware of the temperature and weather conditions. If you know that the temperature has reached freezing (32 degrees F) or below, you can safely assume that any wet spot that you see on the road is likely black ice.
Just like driving in the snow, go as slowly and carefully as possible. When you approach black ice, let off both pedals immediately. Keep your steering wheel straight as much as possible. It is very easy to slide around and lose control when turning on black ice. If you must turn, be sure to turn into the skid rather than the opposite direction. Never slam on your brakes on a patch of black ice; if you must slow down, pump your brakes.
Contact Kirmac Collision & Autoglass
If you’re in need of collision repair due to a winter accident or black ice, Kirmac Collision & Autoglass is here for you. With many convenient locations including Maple Ridge and Schoolhouse, quality auto services are always close by. Schedule an appointment today if you’re in need of autoglass repair. For more winter safety tips, or if you’d like more information on safe driving, we’d be happy to help. We look forward to hearing from you!
