For many of us in Central Florida, driving in winter more often than not goes off without even the smallest hiccup. Winter here in Florida isn't something many of us have to struggle to drive through. But, if you live up north or are planning on traveling up north for wintertime festivities then you're going to want to take these tips into consideration. Check out these tips from us at Toyota of Clermont!
How to Improve Driving in Winter
Tip 1) Bridges Always Ice First
If your traveling involves bridges, remember that they'll likely ice before the roads do. Your route might not initially involve driving on ice which will likely leave you feeling comfortable but if you wind up crossing a bridge you'll likely hit ice. These obstacles on your route not only pose slipping hazards for your Clermont Toyota car but there's also the chance you get into an accident on a bridge. Be careful and drive with more caution when crossing a bridge while driving in winter.
Tip 2) Don't Accelerate or Brake too Quickly
Drivers from Clermont know that it's unwise to hit the brakes or accelerate too quickly when it rains. Apply this same thinking to driving in winter. Snow and ice create slippery conditions on the roads and hitting the gas or brake too quickly can lead to a slip or accident. Your vehicle's anti-lock brakes will likely activate to mitigate the slide, but take care to avoid doing this if you can.
Tip 3) Slow Things Down a Bit
Bad things are likely to happen when driving at high speeds so slow things down when driving in winter. This will give you more reaction time and likely prevent you from getting into a serious accident. Driving slower will also give you better control of your vehicle during your commute.
Tip 4) Put Your Seatbelt on
Regardless of whether you're driving in winter or in Clermont during the summer, you should have your seatbelt on at all times when driving. It's not only the law but it's also one of the best safety features your car is equipped with. Make sure to wear yours during wintery conditions as an accident is much more likely to happen.
Tip 5) Stay Away From Hills
Flat roads are slippery enough during the winter months, imagine what hills are like. Driving on a hill in winter can more easily lead to a slide as you'll likely be accelerating more and the grade is steep. If you can avoid hills as part of your commuting route, do so.
Tip 6) Steer into a Slide
While it might sound counter-intuitive, you have to trust us on this one. If you wind up sliding when driving in winter, steer into the direction of the slide. Trying to overcorrect your slide by turning in the opposite direction could cause your rear-end to spin out and then have you spinning out of control. Instead, try to keep calm, let off the gas, turn into the slide, and gradually correct yourself.
Still have questions before your trip? Toyota of Clermont is here to help! Visit our auto service center today at 16851 State Road 50.
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