Fall is in full effect which means it is time to look ahead to winter. While those of us in California may not need to worry about snow and ice in our daily lives, there are still steps that should be taken to protect our vehicles against winter.
Here are a few tips that can help you get your car ready for winter and prevent accidents. If you have already been in an accident and need to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707.
The top tip is relevant all year long
The biggest tip is to ensure that you are wearing your seatbelt. This may not seem to be related to winter driving, but the truth is that at any time of year, the number one way you can reduce your chance of dying in a car accident, or sustaining a catastrophic injury, is to wear a seatbelt. This is worth mentioning in any list of ways to get ready for winter.
Make sure to get plenty of sleep
Once again, this is important at all times of the year but even more important in winter months when the sun is out for fewer hours than in the summer. The dark makes it harder to see and can make a slightly tired person much more tired. More and more studies have been released recently to show that fatigue is a top contributor to accidents so it is important to not get behind the wheel if you have fatigued.
Keep your car in good condition
Your car should be well maintained and in good working order every day of the year. This is even truer in winter. You should have your tires checked to ensure they are inflated correctly. If you are going to travel to somewhere with temperatures at or below freezing, you will want to keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the gas line from freezing.
Look to your destination
If you are going to be traveling out of Southern California, make sure to check the weather forecast. If bad weather is forecasted, see if you can postpone your trip. If not, carefully check your route to make sure that it is still the best and safest option with changes to the weather. Bring along items you would need if you get stranded, such as blankets, food, and water.
Injuries happen every day of the year
No matter what the weather is like, an accident can always occur. Whether it was caused by poor road conditions, negligence on the part of another driver, or another preventable situation, it is always worth talking to a personal injury attorney to find out if you have grounds to sue for damages. The easiest way to find out what your options are is to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
