Avoid these driving habits to stay safe this winter.

While you always face risks when you drive, driving during winter is especially dangerous.  Luckily, you can reduce your risk by avoiding certain habits as you drive this winter.  Here are some of the driving behaviors that you should avoid as you hit the road this season.

1) Don’t Let Your Fuel Level Get Too Low

While many drivers let their gas meter get to empty before they bother to fill up, you should definitely avoid this habit during the winter months.  If you live in a place that experiences extremely cold temperatures, letting your gas drop below the halfway point can actually result in your gas line freezing.  Even if you aren’t in danger of having your gas freeze, you should never risk running out of fuel on a cold winter day.

2) Be Sure to Clean Off Ice and Snow

Before you set off on a drive, it’s important that you clear off the ice and snow that has accumulated on your car.  You have to be especially carful to clean off your car’s windshield, windows, and mirrors.  This will ensure that you can see well enough to drive safely.  Additionally, if you fail to clear off your car, then chunks of snow could fly off your car and hit another vehicle, or even a pedestrian.

3) Make Sure You Have the Right Tires

Finally, driving on wet, icy streets can increase your chances of getting into an accident or skidding off the road.  To mitigate this risk, it’s important that your car is equipped with the proper tires to handle winter driving conditions.  Having snow tires or using snow chains will ensure that your car is getting the necessary traction to maneuver slippery streets safely.

These are some of the driving habits you should avoid this winter.  Want another way to stay safe this season?  Make sure you have the proper auto insurance protections in place.  To find the right policy to fit your needs, contact the team at Steve Wilk Insurance Agency.  Located in Illinois, check out our new office at 310 S Main Street, Suite C, Lombard, IL 60148.