Winter is indeed here, and with winter comes snow and ice… lots and lots of snow and ice… So here are 7 (with a 8th tip on us!) easy tips for winter driving, shared by Manitoba Public Insurance:
1. Winterize: At Peg City Car Coop, we take care of outfitting every car, van and truck in the fleet with winter tires, as well as ice scrapers and snow brushes. If the vehicle you’ve booked has a handy back-up camera to help you see from all angles, remember to give the camera lens a wipe at the start of your booking to clear away dirt and debris.
2. Stay sharp – be a defensive driver. Beware of icy spots – bridges, overpasses, just before intersections and shady spots. Watch for other drivers who may be sliding. Slow down near vehicles stopped by the side of the road.
4. Prepare for severe conditions. Check road and weather conditions. Avoid driving altogether in severe weather.
5. See and be seen. Before leaving, clear snow and ice off your vehicle and wait for foggy windows to clear up. Turn headlights on during heavy snow or sleet. On sunny days, use the visor and/or polarized sunglasses. Advance cautiously at snow banks.
6. Drive smoothly. Accelerate, brake and make turns gradually, gently. Brake sooner.
7. Keep plenty of following distance between you and the vehicle ahead. In ideal conditions, leave four seconds on city streets and six seconds on highways. In winter, leave considerably more.
7. Know yourself: Remember, when inclement weather makes driving downright impossible or dangerous, we will cancel your booking at no cost!
8. Know your surroundings (this is a bonus from us). Check your rear and side view mirrors frequently. Make sure to do a thorough shoulder and mirror check before changing lanes. Even if you have the right of way, don’t assume other drivers will stop. And always, make sure you are crossing intersections – especially when making turns – with lots of room to spare!
Take care out there!
