Massachusetts winters can be cold, icy and snowy. Driving on our state’s roads can be treacherous, especially for new drivers or those who don’t have much experience driving in winter conditions. Even seasoned motorists find severe winter challenging when traveling. Keep these winter driving tips in mind when snow and ice cover roadways.
Outfit Your Car with an Emergency Kit 
Before you get on the road, be sure to prepare your vehicle for winter travel by assembling an emergency car kit that includes the following:
- High-powered and compact flashlights and extra batteries
- Non-perishable single-serve food items
- Bottled water
- Blankets
- Jumper cables
- Phone charger
- Small bag of sand
- Small shovel
- Extra boots, socks, gloves, hat and coat
Maintain Your Vehicle
Properly maintaining your vehicle can help avoid winter-relating driving mishaps. Get your oil changed regularly, and conduct regular safety checks to ensure your lights work correctly. Keep an eye on the following potential problems:
- Worn wiper blades can cause more harm than good by dragging snow and mud across the windshield.
- Snow-covered taillights and headlights can make your car less visible to other drivers.
- Worn tires can make it difficult to maintain traction on icy and snowy roads.
- A weak battery can leave you stranded in freezing temperatures.
- Worn brake pads can make stopping more difficult.
When you get your oil changed, ask your mechanic to top off your fluids, check your tire pressure and inspect your brakes. Some essential maintenance can save you money in the long run and help keep you safer on the road.
Driving on Ice and Snow
Even after winter storms end and roads are cleared, Massachusetts roads may still be partially ice and snow-covered. It’s wise to give yourself extra time to reach your destination during winter. Here are a few tips to help keep safe on the road during the winter months:
- Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before leaving, and tell someone that you’ll be on the road.
- Clear all snow and ice off your vehicle’s glass, headlights, taillights, hood and roof to maximize visibility.
- Keep your gas tank above 50% full.
- Check your windshield wiper fluid levels when you fill up at the gas station. Running out of wiper fluid can cause dangerous issues with visibility.
- Replace worn wiper blades and burned-out bulbs right away.
- Keep an eye on tire pressure. Cold weather can cause tires to lose pressure.
How to Get Auto Insurance in Massachusetts
Contact Regina Jasak Agency in Ludlow, Massachusetts, for appropriate auto insurance to help provide crucial financial protection.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.