{"id":6013,"date":"2021-12-08T09:30:00","date_gmt":"2021-12-08T17:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogv2prod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/?p=6013"},"modified":"2024-05-14T18:52:24","modified_gmt":"2024-05-15T01:52:24","slug":"winter-driving-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.carparts.com\/blog\/winter-driving-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Prepare for Hazardous Winter Driving"},"content":{"rendered":"\nReading Time: <\/span> 5<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>\n\n\n

It’s that time of year again—Old Man Winter is here. And he’s angry. If you live in a part of the country that sees real winter conditions (60-degree temperatures and light rain does not count, Southern California), then you’ll likely encounter snow and ice on a daily basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Such conditions require you to pay special attention to both your car and your driving habits. You’ll also want to make sure you’re prepared in case of an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prepare for Harsh Conditions with these Winter Driving Safety Tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you get stranded during the summer, you can just hang out in shorts and a tank top until help arrives—but that’s not the case during the winter. When the snow flies, you need to be sure you’re prepared for the worst-case scenario: being stuck outside in sub-zero temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are a few winter driving tips<\/a> that will help ensure that both you and your vehicle are ready for whatever comes your way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Bring equipment to deal with the snow and ice<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

We’ve all been there: It’s the first snowfall of the season, and you forgot the ice scraper. Don’t be that person. Make sure you have the essentials—such as an ice scraper and shovel—onboard at all times. If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, you may also want to toss a bag of kitty litter in the trunk for better traction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Also, if you plan on traveling into the mountain country, don’t forget to pack a set of snow chains. Usually, all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles can go without chains. But during extreme winter conditions, local authorities may require chains on all vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Pack emergency equipment for your car<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Guess what? You aren’t the only one who can benefit from an emergency preparedness kit. Your car should have one, too. Consider packing the following automotive equipment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n