Chicago winters are legendary and a cause for concern for every motorist. Winter driving in Chicago means your vehicle should be in the right condition to withstand extremely low temperatures, ice and snow on roads, and reduced visibility. Here are some things to consider when embarking on winter driving in Chicago to minimize the chances of being stranded on the road or getting into an accident.
Emergency Car Kit List for Winter Driving in Chicago
When driving in winter conditions, the National Safety Council recommends you have some of these items as part of your emergency kit:
- Wheel wrench, a spare tire, and a tripod jack
- A fully functioning first-aid kit that includes non-latex gloves, scissors, cold compress, bandages, a blanket, and antibiotic ointment, among other
- Bottled drinking water and nonperishable snacks
- Jumper cables
- Road flares and reflective triangles
- Flashlight with batteries
- A reflective vest, among other essentials
Preparation for Your Vehicle
Here is how to prepare your vehicle for safe winter driving in Chicago to minimize the chances of being stranded or getting into an accident.
- Always have a strong and long-enough ice scraper on your vehicle that can get the job done
- Ensure your washer fluid is full and has anti-freeze because you tend to use a lot of it during winter
- Ensure your wipers are in good working condition for winter driving and change them regularly. A good trick for protecting wipers is to detach them from the windscreen when parked outside to minimize instances when you have to scrap accumulated snow.
- Check your tire pressure regularly. Winter driving requires tire pressure of between 30-35 PSI
- Remove accumulated ice and snow on your car, not just from the windows but from the roof, trunk, bonnet, and lights. Experts recommend this because it makes it easier for other drivers to see you on the road.
- Ensure that your lights are in optimal working conditions for safe winter driving in Chicago.
Safe Driving Techniques for Chicago Winters
Here are some safe winter driving techniques for you to consider:
- Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front to ensure the stopping time is at least 10 seconds
- Drive slower than usual, especially when it comes to your acceleration and deceleration
- Do not use cruise control when driving in winter conditions. Ensure you have full control of your vehicle
- Always steer in the direction of the skid to reduce instances of your vehicle spinning in the course of slippery driving.
- Take extra care when driving on bridges and in tunnels because they tend to accumulate more ice on their surface.
In Case You Get Into an Accident in Chicago This Winter, Call Larry
Even with all the above precautions, winter driving in Chicago is still a risky endeavor, mostly because you cannot control the actions of other drivers. In case you get into an accident or are injured due to another driver’s negligence, you might be eligible for compensation. If you need help with this matter, contact Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free consultation, and you will not pay a penny until Larry wins.
