Winter Wonderland Driving

      Please read to learn more about safety tips while driving in the snow and ice and please leave a comment below.
        Today’s topic includes information on safety while driving in the snow and icy weather. Unless you are visiting Bethlehem, PA from Southern states chances are you have had a run-in or two with driving in snowy conditions. We are going to offer a few safety tips to keep you and your family safe while driving in a winter wonderland.
            First, an ounce of prevention is worth of pound of cure! Prior to winter weather or blizzard conditions check to ensure that all of your tires are fully inflated. Not over inflated, but inflated to the requirements listed on the wall of your tires. If you can’t find the recommended PSI ratings check inside your cars door panels for specific directions. If you still can’t easily find the recommended PSI ratings you can always see if the information is listed in your car’s user guide. Sometimes a car’s user guide does not list specifications as tires do not last the life of the vehicle, and each tire requires different PSI levels. Also, keep your gas tank full in case you are in an accident and must sit on the side of the road. At least you will be able to run your vehicle to keep you warm.
       Second, bring emergency equipment such as jumper cables, road flares, emergency blankets, water, and snacks like granola bars or other sustainable foods. Keeping chains for tires, cat litter, and a small shovel will prove useful if your car gets stuck along the road. Make sure your car is equipped with long handled scrapers if snowy conditions are copious and require frequent cleanings. Having windshield washer fluid that has a low freezing point is imperative in winter weather as salt and grime blowing off vehicles in front of you makes visibility a nightmare in snowy conditions.
          Finally, driving skills and safety tactics will help you on the road in the event your car hits icy spots or slippery snow covered roadways. The most important piece of advice here is to drive slowly, but not too slowly as to prevent getting enough traction to move through uncleaned roads or intersections. If you are driving and suddenly unable to stop due to ice it is important to paddle the brakes, unless your car is equipped with an antilock braking system (ABS). Suddenly slamming on the brakes will send your car into a spinning disaster and you will likely no longer be moving straight ahead. Instead, slowly push the brake pedal in and out in an effort to gain traction with your tires. Turn your steering wheel slowly for turns and avoid sharp or sudden movements as vehicles without traction are prone to forces that will push your vehicle away from your intended direction.
The above is offered as suggestion as not all circumstances are the same. Experience is the best skill for keeping you safe on the road. Until you are highly experienced, please drive very cautiously.
      Here at Bethlehem Towing we wish you and your family the best in snowy conditions. Please drive cautiously but if you are ever in a situation requiring a tow, please don’t hesitate to call us at 610-557-1975.   

---