A Few Reminders About Winter Driving

It's always best to be prepared ahead of time
for Winter traffic jams like these ones!

Another big Utah snowstorm hit us last night, and many people out there were unprepared. SR-201 and I-80 were like parking lots, and many people got stuck in traffic for 3+ hours trying to get home!

Here are a few things to keep in mind when driving in Utah:

• Keep your gas tank 1/2 full at all times
  Not only is this important for your fuel pump, but for those that got stuck in traffic last night, they just couldn't pull off and fill up their gas tank. You may think you have enough gas to get from A to B, but if a snowstorm hits, you could get stuck in your vehicle for hours at a time. 
• Keep snacks in your vehicle
  This is especially important if you are diabetic or have blood sugar issues. Even for those that don't, getting stuck in a traffic jam during dinner time makes it harder to stay patient when your stomach is growling. Items like peanut butter crackers are inexpensive, and are high in protein to keep your stomach full until you reach your destination and can get a full meal.
• Carry a blanket
  If by chance you do get stuck in a snow drift, or you have to turn your vehicle off while in a traffic jam,  being cold can get very uncomfortable, very fast! Always have a warm blanket in your vehicle for times like these. It also comes in handy if you witness an accident, and need to keep somebody warm to prevent them from going into shock.
• Do not turn on your wipers until all snow has been cleared from your window.
  Turning your wipers on while there is still snow accumulated can wear on your wiper transmission. This is one of the top auto repairs we see in our shop that is easily prevented. Also, make sure your wipers are always in good working condition. Don't wait until you are in that snowstorm to decide your wipers are worn out. Change them before they get to that point so that they are there when you need them. 
• Have kitty litter or ice melt on hand
  Kitty litter is very inexpensive, and works great for creating traction if you get stuck.
• Do not drive on worn tires!
  This is something we cannot stress enough! Good tires are the key to staying safe while driving in wet and slippery conditions. Read our article on tire tips. Did you know that we sell tires? If you are in need of new tires, come in and we can get you as many as you need. We always do free tire checks if you are unsure if you need new tires. Stop by any time during regular business hours. 
• Slow down!
  Please adjust your speed according to the weather and the condition of the roads. Just because the speed limit says 55 doesn't mean that it's safe to drive that fast if roads are slick or wet. 
• Winter Vehicle Kit
  Read our list of items to keep in a vehicle at all times. A cell phone charger is especially important, because you never know when you are going to get stuck in a winter snowstorm traffic jam.