{"id":7066,"date":"2023-01-05T10:00:11","date_gmt":"2023-01-05T16:00:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/?p=7066"},"modified":"2023-01-06T14:54:02","modified_gmt":"2023-01-06T20:54:02","slug":"driving-in-winter-weather","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/blog\/driving-in-winter-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"Driving in Winter Weather"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"article--copy\">\n<h3>The Basics<\/h3>\n<p>Slow down. It\u2019s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. In fact, in 2020, there were an estimated 119,000 police- reported crashes that occurred in wintry conditions. On the road, increase your following distance enough so that you\u2019ll have plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t crowd a snow plow or travel beside the truck. Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes, and exit the road frequently. If you find yourself behind a snow plow, stay far enough behind it and use caution if you pass the plow.<\/p>\n<h3>What to Do in an Emergency<\/h3>\n<p>If you are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself and your passengers, your car, and your surroundings.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay with your car and don\u2019t overexert yourself.<\/li>\n<li>Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on.<\/li>\n<li>Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car only sporadically \u2014 just long enough to stay warm. Don\u2019t run your car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"66991\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"small-block-video\">\n<div class=\"container-fluid\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"small-block-video-container\">\n<div class=\"block-video embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9\">\n<div class=\"block-video--inner lazyload\" data-style=\"background-image:inherit\" data-bg-image=\"url(\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/2021-10\/Winter-driving-emergency-1600-900.jpg)\">\n<div class=\"block-video--inner-copy\">\n<div class=\"tag-h5\">\n<p>WINTER DRIVING<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"tag-h1\">\n<p>What To Do in an Emergency<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div><button class=\"btn btn-primary btn-huge link-arrow-parent\" data-play-block-video=\"block-video-58691\"><span class=\"link-arrow link-arrow--hide\">WATCH THE VIDEO\u00a0<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"changes-you-may-notice\" class=\"article--copy\">\n<div class=\"topic--section-heading\">\n<h1>Changes You May Notice<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article--copy\">\n<div id=\"66756\"><\/div>\n<h3>Tires<\/h3>\n<p>As the outside temperature drops, so does tire inflation pressure. Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer\u2019s recommended inflation pressure, which is in your owner\u2019s manual and on a label located on the driver&#8217;s side door frame. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself. That number is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for the your vehicle.<\/p>\n<p>Some other tips:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips.<\/li>\n<li>It\u2019s best to check the tires when they\u2019re cold, meaning that they have not been driven on for at least three hours.<\/li>\n<li>Check each tire\u2019s age. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years regardless of use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>An inspection is not just about checking tire pressure and age. Remember to check:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>for any damage or conditions that may need attention;<\/li>\n<li>the tread and sidewalls for any cuts, punctures, bulges, scrapes, cracks, or bumps. The tread should be at least 2\/32 of an inch or greater on all tires; and<\/li>\n<li>your spare tire.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you find tire damage, take your vehicle to a tire service professional.<\/p>\n<p>Consider installing snow tires, but before buying new tires, visit NHTSA\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/31846\">Tires<\/a>\u00a0page to review tire safety ratings. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading System (UTQGS) lets you compare tire treadwear, traction performance, and temperature resistance.<\/p>\n<h3>Car Seats<\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"align-right lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/2021-11\/English_Coats-in-Car-Seats-Best-for-Toddlers.jpg\" alt=\"Side by side of children in car seat, one in puffy coat, one not.\" data-entity-type=\"\" data-entity-uuid=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/>In colder weather, parents typically dress their children in winter coats. But it\u2019s important to know that heavy coats can interfere with the proper harness fit on a child in a car seat. When your child will be secured in a car seat, pick thin, warm layers, and place blankets or coats around your child after the harness is snug and secure for extra warmth.<\/p>\n<p>Also, make sure car seats and booster seats are properly installed and that any children riding with you are in the right seat for their ages and sizes. See NHTSA\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/35066#find-the-right-car-seat-car-seat-recommendations\">child passenger safety recommendations<\/a>\u00a0to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/35066#find-the-right-car-seat-the-process\">find the right seat<\/a>\u00a0for your child\u2019s age and size. You can visit NHTSA\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/35066#installation-help-inspection\">Child Car Seat Inspection Station Locator<\/a>\u00a0to find a free car seat inspection site near you, or to get information on virtual inspections.<\/p>\n<h3>Batteries<\/h3>\n<p>When the temperature drops, so does battery power. In cold weather, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start, and electric and hybrid-electric vehicles\u2019 driving range can be reduced. Have a mechanic check your battery, charging system, belts, and for any other needed repairs or replacements.<\/p>\n<h3>Safety Technologies<\/h3>\n<p>Familiarize yourself with the safety technologies on your vehicle and how they perform in wintry conditions. Know whether your vehicle has an antilock brake system and learn how to use it properly. Antilock brake systems prevent your wheels from locking up during braking. If you have antilock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal. If you don\u2019t have antilock brakes, you may need to pump your brakes if you feel your wheels starting to lock up. For more information on driver assistance technologies, visit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/2101\">NHTSA.gov\/DriverAssistTech<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Floor Mats<\/h3>\n<p>Due to slushy winter conditions, you might consider switching out your usual floor mats for thicker material or rubbery ones. Improperly installed floor mats in your vehicle could interfere with the operation of the accelerator or brake pedal, increasing the risk of a crash. Follow the manufacturer\u2019s instructions for mat installation and use retention clips to secure the mats. Always use mats that are the correct size and fit for your vehicle.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"preparing-your-vehicle\" class=\"article--copy\">\n<div class=\"topic--section-heading\">\n<h1>Preparing Your Vehicle<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article--copy\">\n<div id=\"51671\"><\/div>\n<h3><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/styles\/large\/public\/lights-icon.png\" alt=\"Light icon\" data-entity-type=\"\" data-entity-uuid=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" \/>\u00a0 \u00a0<img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/styles\/thumbnail\/public\/wiper-icon.png\" alt=\"Windshield wiper icon\" data-entity-type=\"\" data-entity-uuid=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" \/>\u00a0 \u00a0<img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/styles\/thumbnail\/public\/coolant-icon.png\" alt=\"Coolant icon\" data-entity-type=\"\" data-entity-uuid=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" \/><\/h3>\n<h3>Lights<\/h3>\n<p>Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights. Be sure to also check your trailer brake lights and turn signals, if necessary.<\/p>\n<h3>Windshield Wipers<\/h3>\n<p>You can quickly go through a lot of windshield wiper fluid in a single snowstorm. Make sure your vehicle\u2019s reservoir is full of high-quality \u201cwinter\u201d fluid with de-icer before winter weather hits. Make sure defrosters and all windshield wipers work and replace any worn blades. Consider installing heavy-duty winter wipers if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice.<\/p>\n<h3>Cooling System<\/h3>\n<p>Make sure you have enough coolant in your vehicle, and that it meets the manufacturer\u2019s specifications. See your vehicle owner\u2019s manual for recommendations. Check the cooling system for leaks, test the coolant, and drain or replace the old coolant.<\/p>\n<p>You may also want to visit your mechanic for a tune-up and ask them to check for leaks, badly worn hoses, or other needed parts, repairs, and replacements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"before-you-go\" class=\"article--copy\">\n<div class=\"topic--section-heading\">\n<h1>Before You Go<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"71416\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"small-block-video\">\n<div class=\"container-fluid\">\n<div class=\"row\">\n<div class=\"small-block-video-container\">\n<div class=\"block-video embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9\">\n<div class=\"block-video--inner lazyload\" data-style=\"background-image:inherit\" data-bg-image=\"url(\/sites\/nhtsa.gov\/files\/2022-11\/Ice%20Scraper%20Car%20%281%29.jpg)\">\n<div class=\"block-video--inner-copy\">\n<div class=\"tag-h5\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"tag-h1\"><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div><button class=\"btn btn-primary btn-huge link-arrow-parent\" data-play-block-video=\"block-video-61716\"><span class=\"link-arrow link-arrow--hide\">WATCH THE VIDEO\u00a0<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article--copy\">\n<div id=\"51646\"><\/div>\n<h3>Stock Your Vehicle<\/h3>\n<p>Carry items in your vehicle to handle common winter driving-related tasks, and supplies you might need in an emergency, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>a snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper;<\/li>\n<li>abrasive material (sand or kitty litter), in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow;<\/li>\n<li>jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices (flares and emergency markers);<\/li>\n<li>blankets for protection from the cold; and<\/li>\n<li>a cell phone and charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Gas Up or Plug It In<\/h3>\n<p>Keep your gas tank close to full whenever possible.<\/p>\n<p>For electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, decrease the drain on the battery. In general, lithium ion batteries have reduced energy at lower temperatures. Additionally, most all vehicle batteries will use battery power for self-heating in low temperatures. The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures. \u00a0A common way to do this: plug your vehicle in at night during the winter, keeping the battery temperature in its optimal ranges.<\/p>\n<h3>Plan Your Route<\/h3>\n<p>Check your local weather and traffic reports before heading out. If your roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. If you do have to go out, make sure you are prepared in case you become delayed while traveling. If making a long road trip when winter weather is forecasted, consider leaving early or changing your departure to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.<\/p>\n<p>Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go\u2014even if you use a GPS\u2014and let others know your route and anticipated arrival time. On longer trips, plan enough time to stop to stretch, get something to eat, check your phone, and change drivers or rest if you feel drowsy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article--copy\">\n<div id=\"67006\"><\/div>\n<h1>Year-Round Safety<\/h1>\n<h3>Check for Recalls<\/h3>\n<p>NHTSA&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/2401\">Recalls Look-up Tool<\/a>\u00a0lets you enter a vehicle identification number (VIN) to quickly learn if your vehicle has a critical safety issue that has not been repaired, and how to get that repair done for free. You can also download NHTSA\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/node\/101906\">SaferCar app<\/a>\u00a0and enter your vehicle and equipment information. If a recall is issued, you\u2019ll get an alert on your phone.<\/p>\n<h3>Avoid Risky Driving Behaviors<\/h3>\n<p>You know the rules: Do not text or drive distracted; obey posted speed limits; and always drive sober. Both alcohol and drugs can impair safe and responsible driving by affecting things such as coordination, judgment, perception, and reaction time. And remember: always wear your seat belt.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>https:\/\/www.nhtsa.gov\/winter-driving-tips#:~:text=Driving%20in%20Winter%20Weather,-The%20Basics&amp;text=On%20the%20road,%20increase%20your,and%20exit%20the%20road%20frequently.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Basics Slow down. It\u2019s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. In fact, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":116,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":null,"_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"","_seopress_robots_index":"","_analytify_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7066","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7066","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/116"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7066"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/7066\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7066"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=7066"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aipflorida.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=7066"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}