Winter Driving Tips - December 11, 2017

Whether you're driving a brand new vehicle that you just picked up from Community Toyota or you're driving a vehicle that is a year or two old, you may need driving safety tips for the winter. While these normally only apply if you head out of state and go up north, the recent cold snap that hit the south begs to differ!

If your vehicle is older, you do need to bring it in to our service department to have it checked for the winter and to have the maintenance completed if you haven't done so already.

Have Your Vehicle Checked or Maintained

Having your vehicle checked or maintained before the winter weather sets in could save you from getting stranded in the cold. A service technician will be able to look at parts that tend to wear out such as belts, hoses, brakes and tires and will let you know if he or she thinks that anything is going to wear out within the next couple months.

Emergency Kit

Be sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times. This should include – at a minimum – extra clothing, blankets, a flashlight, extra batteries, reflective triangles, non-perishable snacks, water and a first aid kit.

Watch For Black Ice

Most experienced drivers know to look for black ice, but newer drivers who have never experienced it before might be surprised when they hit it. You can't see it in most cases. You'll most likely find black ice on bridges, in areas where the road is shady or in areas where runoff is running onto the road. Sometimes you'll get a warning if the sun hits it just right; however, to keep yourself safe, approach shady spots and bridges with caution.

Drive Slowly in the Fog

When it's foggy, slow down. Not only is visibility poor, but if you're going from a warm night to a cold morning – and that is what is causing the fog – the fog could freeze when it hits the ground. And this could turn deadly fast. Whether you are driving on the highway or you are driving on a back road, be very careful of fog, especially if it is cooler out.

Stop by Community Toyota

Be sure to stop by Community Toyota to test drive a new vehicle if you are in the market for something new. Give our service department a call if you need to have your vehicle checked or serviced.