Winter Collisions: Know How to Prepare for the Worst

As the weather in Mid Ohio changes, drivers face the risk of heavy snow and icy conditions making area roads hazardous for driving. Winter collisions range from simple fender benders to events that can total your vehicle. It’s best to stay off the roads, especially when traffic advisory messages recommend staying home. Road conditions become hazardous whenever temperatures drop below freezing. If you have to go out on the roads to get to work or fill up your pantry, take a minute to gather essential supplies and keep them in the trunk of your vehicle.

Winter collision survival kit

The kit should include:

• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• Extra clothing, especially coats, pants, gloves and boots.
• A battery charger.
• Jumper cables.
• Flashlights.
• Sand (if your vehicle gets stuck in the snow or ice, it will traction).
• A small shovel.
• Road flares.
• A brightly colored rag or towel. If you get stuck on the side of the road, tying the rag to your vehicle will help other drivers see your car.
• Bottled water and snacks, like nuts or granola.
• A first-aid kit.

While you’re waiting for help or trying to dig yourself out of a ditch, keep these precautions in mind:

• Run the engine for a few minutes every hour to keep the car warm and conserve gas, just in case you’re stuck somewhere for awhile and help can’t reach you.
• If you’re on a busy road, or even a dark road where it’s difficult for other drivers to see, stay in your car if you can’t light flares or run a flashlight – or your car’s hazard lights are blocked by snow – until help arrives.
• Most experts recommend staying calm and remaining inside the vehicle.

Even 4x4 trucks and vehicles aren’t immune to sliding into a ditch or being involved in an accident caused by another vehicle. Be prepared for the worst-case scenario, and avoid winter collisions by readying a survival kit. For more information about winter collisions or vehicle repairs, contact Osgar’s Autobody.