Whether you like it or not, winter in Ottawa is a bit harsh and there are lots of snow already dusting the roads. Therefore, safe driving tips is an important part when driving. Drivers need to pay special attention to road conditions during the winter and inclement weather to make sure everyone has a safe trip. In the winter, driving is a lot more hazardous owing in part to the longer periods of darkness, and the varied forms of extreme weather that are often seen in the Ottawa area. Over the last few years, there have been several instances of floods and extended heavy snowfall.
The road conditions in Ottawa are much different than any other time of year, as such, it’s important for drivers to take steps to prepare themselves every time they hit the road. One of the first things you should do to help keep the roads free of collision is to plan your trip ahead to allow you enough time to drive at a moderate to slow pace. Travel through different areas of the country at times can expose you to diverse weather conditions that affect the road, and therefore you will need to be able to adapt your driving methods accordingly. In the event of extreme weather, you should avoid driving at all, so if you are determined to hit the road this winter, we hope you will find our winter driving tips useful.
Weather proofing
Though you can’t really weatherproof everything, you can get your car in the best possible shape to handle slippery roads. Make sure your vehicle is outfitted with winter tires, which are different than your average tire. Winter tires have a stronger grip on the road, which provides better traction braking and handling on icy roads.
In most cases, it can even reduce the amount of distance it takes your car to slow down by as much as 25%. Always clear the ice, snow, and fog from your care before you get on the road. Visibility is very important in the winter, so make sure your mirrors, lights, and from & back windshields are completely clear prior to departure.
Be prepared
You never know what conditions you will face on the road, so it’s best to prepare for most of them. Make sure you have a kit in the back of your car or truck that contains items such as; jumper cables, a first aid kit, water bottles, a safety vest, candles, a snow brush, a portable shovel, and winter gloves. Aside from having a road-ready weather kit, make sure you prepare yourself by checking the local news for updates on the road conditions and weather patterns along the route you plan to travel.
Despite having these, if you still feel the heat of getting stranded in the middle of highways, it’s smart to get help from the professionals. Call a towing service immediately who can help you tow your car safely to the desired destination in Ottawa.
