Winter Conditions Present Safety Challenges For Drivers

Driving these days can be dangerous no matter how prepared you are, but winter driving? That’s a whole other beast.

With the first real flurries just around the corner and potentially big blizzards not far behind, automotive stores are starting to stock up on some of the winter basics – a list that includes everything from floor mats to washer fluid.

Each year authorities encourage drivers to take every precaution necessary in order to protect themselves against slick and dangerous roads; a process they say begins with carefully selected and maintained tires for your vehicle.

“They don’t have the right ones on then they’re sliding all over the place,” said mechanic Andy Papi.

“You need a good winter tire.”

After you get your rubber right, experts say the three areas people need to be aware of are the car or truck’s battery to make sure you have power, the level and quality of anti-freeze to make sure it won’t luck up in the frost, and spark plugs so your ride doesn’t stall when you need it the most.

Besides keeping your car in top condition, experts say it’s equally important for drivers to make sure they’re prepared for the various challenges inherent with driving in the nasty winter weather.

“When the winter does come up you have to be mentally alert,” said Marum Malik, a driving instructor with 15 years experience.

“The first snowfall is usually the worst for drivers … driving too fast.”