Winter's Coming: Why It's Important to Prepare (and Compare Auto Insurance) Beforehand

When we think of winter driving, the tendency is to envision lots of ice
and snow. While this is true for much of the country, another factor is
extended hours of darkness. So even if you live in a temperate climate,
winter’s coming, and it’s important to prepare beforehand. It’s also smart
to compare auto insurance
before the season sets in to make sure your coverage and rates are ready
for winter risks.

Every Car Should Have…

Winter often brings challenges you won’t face in the warmer months. If you
live in a frigid area, the
href="http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/news-and-resources-winter-your-car-and-you.aspx" target="_blank"
>
National Safety Council

recommends keeping a kit in the trunk of your car containing the following:

● Shovel

● Compass

● Tool kit

● Jumper cables

● First aid kit

● Windshield cleaner

● Tow and tire chains

● Flashlight and extra batteries

● Reflective triangles or flares

● Scissors and string or cord

● Ice scraper and snowbrush

● Blankets, mittens, socks and hats

● Matches in a waterproof container

● Properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod jack

● Bag of salt or cat litter for better tire traction or to melt snow

● High-energy non-perishable foods like unsalted, canned nuts and dried
fruits

These items could save your life if you get stuck on an icy road in a
remote area.

Perform Routine Maintenance Now

Fall is a great time to refresh all your fluids and filters after the
months of warm weather driving. Experts at the
href="http://www.ase.com/News-Events/Publications/Glove-Box-Tips/Getting-Your-Vehicle-Ready-For-Winter.aspx" target="_blank"
>
National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence

say doing it now will save you from having to conduct these tasks in poor
weather.

At a minimum, you’ll want to change your oil and filters, flush and refill
your cooling system, replace the blades on your windshield wipers, get your
battery tested, inspect and replace bulbs as needed and make sure your
heater and defroster work properly. Check your hoses and belts to ensure
they’ll carry you through the season.

Give Your Tires Special Consideration

As substantial as your car might feel, the reality is it is only connected
to the ground by four patches of rubber about the size of the palm of one
of your hands. This is what ensures your car accelerates, brakes, and turns
when you ask it to. Winter driving makes this more difficult for tires as
there is usually more precipitation on the roadway with which they must
contend. Make sure they have

adequate tread

and are properly inflated for the conditions in your area. Inflation
information will be found in your owner’s manual. Neglecting your tires is
asking to be involved in an accident. If you live in an area with lots of
snow, you should also switch over to a snow tire for the winter season.

As the Game of Thrones character Ned Stark frequently warns the
residents of the mythical land of Westeros, winter is coming. It’s
important to prepare beforehand to stave off its ravages. This is also a
great time to compare auto insurance to make sure you have the coverage you
need at the best prices available. Try CoverHound for
fast, free quotes.