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Winter driving, especially in colder areas like Madison, WI, can often be hazardous. Some dangers include:

  • Cold weather, which can impact your vehicle’s mechanical performance .
  • Inclement weather like snow, sleet and heavy rain, which can make the roads icy and difficult to drive on. In fact, icy roads leads to roughly 156,164 car crashes every year.
  • Heavy road traffic during the holidays, which increases the odds of a vehicle collision.

 

This makes it essential to be prepared before heading out to drive during the winter months in Madison, WI. Let’s take a look at the ways you can stay safe safe on the road this winter.

How to Safely Drive in the Winter

 

  • Winterize your car before hitting the road — Steps to winterizing your vehicle include the following tasks:

 

      • Oil change
      • Battery testing
      • Wiper blade replacement
      • Wiper fluid and antifreeze refills
      • Check tire pressure regularly
      • Test brakes and replace brake pads if needed
      • Invest in snow tires
      • Check 4-wheel or all-wheel drive system

 

  • Store a winter safety kit in your vehicle — Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including:

 

      • Jumper cables
      • Tire jack
      • Tire pressure gauge
      • Portable tire inflator
      • Road flares
      • Blankets
      • Flashlights
      • Non-perishable snacks
      • Water

 

  • Drive slowly, especially when accelerating and braking — Prevent skidding by slowly accelerating and braking.
  • Don’t tailgate — You should never tailgate, but it’s especially important to leave ample room between your car and the vehicle in front of you when the road is slippery.
  • Avoid stopping a lot, if possible — Starting and stopping can often lead to skidding, so the more you can avoid it, the better. To help avoid this, try slowing down well before you reach the traffic light.
  • Don’t hit the gas too much while going up hills — Prevent your wheels from spinning by applying even pressure to the accelerator when going up hills.
  • Don’t stop while going up hills —  It can be very difficult to start after stopping on icy roads, especially when going uphill.
  • Navigate snow plows safely — Snow plows are an important part of winter safety on the road. It may be tempting to try to quickly pass them, but this can be dangerous for both parties. Stay behind the snow plow at a safe distance.

 

Winterize Your Vehicle in Madison, WI

The expert technicians at Zimbrick Volkswagen of Madison can help winterize your vehicle. Schedule an appointment at our service center today. We’re located conveniently near Sun Prairie and Janesville.