As winter comes, so does the cold weather and snow. Prepare your car to drive safely in the winter by following these tips. You don’t want these to be the reason that you got into a vehicle accident or got stranded in the snow. 

In the case that you do need help after a car accident in the snow, a Denver car accident attorney can help you out. 

Regular Car Maintenance is up-to Date

Make sure that your engine oil and filter has been changed, check the coolant, brake, and transmission. Don’t forget to rotate your tires. 

Check Tire Tread

Check your tires both the ones on your car and your spares, for wear and tear. Don’t forget to refill the air pressure as needed. Potentially get winter tires or have snow chains on hand if you are driving in areas where snow may occur. Some places like Denver may have laws regulating vehicle traction and chains during the Winter. 

Test Car Battery

During colder weather, car batteries drain faster. Check your car battery and battery cables for corrosion, cracks, and dirt. Make sure it will be able to hold a charge. Replace it as needed for optimal performance or if it’s too old. 

Test the Heater/Defroster System

Make sure it works properly, as the winter time will be very cold and you don’t want to freeze in your car while driving. A defroster will keep your car windows from fogging up due to the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car. 

Change Windshield Wiper Blades

Don’t forget to refill the wiper fluid with winter fluid that has de-icer. Think about replacing your wipers with winter wipers if you live where it snows. 

Check Antifreeze & Coolant

If you are traveling in freezing weather, make sure your antifreeze will work and keep your car from freezing up, and running. 

Make Sure Your Lights Work

Check both your interior and exterior lights such as your brake light, turn signals, as well as your low and high beams. If possible, clean your lenses, to let as much light through so you can see more while driving in the dark. 

Pack a Winter Safety Kit

• Kitty Litter/ Sand Bags
  • The weight of the kitty litter or sand bags in the trunk will help weigh down the back of the car for more control of your rear wheels.
  • If your car gets trapped by snow/ice and can’t move, pouring kitty litter or sand around your tires will draw up moisture from the road and create traction for your tires to get unstuck.
• Flashlight and Batteries
• Shovel
• Ice Scraper & Snow Brush
• Emergency Flares & Reflectors
• Jumper Cables
• First Aid Kit
  • Minimum should include bandaids, cleansing wipes, and antiseptic cream.
• Blankets and Extra Warm Clothes
• Water & Non-Perishable Food
• Basic Tools
  • Screwdrivers, pliers, wrench, etc.
• Phone, charger, and extra power bank

While you follow these tips for winter car maintenance, don’t forget to drive safely, especially when driving in ice or snow. Keep yourself and those around you protected this winter season.