Check Your Car before Tackling Winter Weather Driving

By Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. on December 6, 2012

All Washington drivers should prepare their vehicles before winter weather hits in order to reduce the risk of an accident. There are many vehicle checks you should keep in mind as colder weather moves in. Even without snow or ice, a drop in temperatures can change road and vehicle conditions, which may increase your risk of an accident.

Here are a few things to examine while you’re preparing your vehicle for winter weather:

• Tires. Do your tires have sufficient tread on them? Do they need to be rotated? In some conditions, you may want to consider switching to tires specially designed for winter weather. Also, don’t forget to check your tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in air temperature, your tire pressure can drop by one psi or more.
• Battery. Batteries tend to lose power in cold temperatures, so if your battery struggles in warmer weather, it’s wise to get it replaced. Also, getting the car tuned up can help it start more easily.
• Windshield. Change your wiper blades and fill your windshield wiper fluid reservoir, so you can keep your windshield clean of winter salt, sand, and dirt. This is also a good time to examine your ice scraper and replace it if it looks worn or isn’t working well.
• Fluids. Oil should be changed regularly, and your antifreeze, brake fluid, and power transmission fluids should also be checked and changed if needed. While you’re having fluids checked, also examine the condition of your radiator and your vehicle’s hoses.

If you’re injured in a car accident this winter, the Seattle dangerous road accident lawyers at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S. can help. Call us at (888) 228-3860 for a free case evaluation.