winter

Common Winter Driving Accidents – Avoiding Damage and Injury

We are no strangers to winter driving accidents. About 30% of the repairs we do at CIC during the winter months are related to driving in snow, sleet or ice. According to the US Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration, each year, 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy or icy pavement and 15 percent happen during snowfall or sleet. This results in 1,300 people deaths and more than 116,800 injuries.  

If you live in an area of the country that experiences winter weather conditions, you know that getting on the road when there is snow, sleet or a wintry mix is risky business. The experts at Clarkstown International Collision have a few tips to help keep you safe on the roads this winter:

  • Winterize your car before the end of autumn:  
    • Test your battery; battery power drops as the temperature drops
    • Make sure the cooling system is in good working order
    • Have winter tires with a deeper, more flexible tread put on your car
    • If using all-season tires, check the tread on your tires and replace if less than 2/32 of an inch
    • Check the tire pressure; tire pressure drops as the temperature drops
    • Check your wiper blades and replace if needed
    • Add wiper fluid rated for -30 degrees
    • Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze
    • Keep a flashlight, ice scraper and/or snow broom handy
  • Keep an emergency kit stocked in the car. We love this handy portable car jump starter which also doubles as a quick charge for your cell phone or laptop.
  • AAA offers the following driving tips:
    • Avoid using cruise control in wintry conditions
    • Steer in the direction of a skid, so when your wheels regain traction, you don’t have to overcorrect to stay in your lane
    • Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Do not slam on the brakes! This will make the car slide quickly.
    • Increase following distance to 8 to 10 seconds
    • If possible, don't stop when going uphill

If extreme conditions like a whiteout occur, pull over into a parking lot or safe space where you can wait safely until conditions improve. Avoid pulling over into a shoulder as other cars may not be able to see your vehicle there. Remember, the best way to avoid an accident in winter weather is to stay home if possible! 

 

 

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Customer service was very nice

Murray L.

Jorge and the entire staff are wonderful. They are professional and do everything they can to make the experience of having your car repaired as painless and stress free as possible. Their work is impeccable. Thank you Jorge.

Angela Caiati

Jorge was extremely professional and responsive. He clearly knows the business and managed the process to make the experience as painless as possible. They are also very committed to the community and local Greater Nanuet Chamber which means a lot to me. Great job! And thank you Jorge and Clarkstown Collision!

Mike Carey