Winter Time Driving Myths You Need To Know
You were probably told more than one winter driving tip once you got your license, but how many are actually true or helpful? The truth is that following these false tips and tricks can not only end up costing you money, but they can also be extremely dangerous.
Following the guidance of myths has led all too many families to need the aid of a wrongful death law firm in addition to the financial toll accidents take. So, here are the wintertime driving myths you need to know.
1. You Need to Warm Up Your Car’s Engine in Cold Temperatures
This is probably the most common and widely accepted myth about winter driving. Most people would never think to drive their car when it hasn’t had a chance to warm up. However, most modern vehicles only need between 15-30 seconds before they’re ready to be driven even in cold conditions. In fact, you’re simply wasting fuel and adding to excessive carbon emissions.
2. You Don’t Really Need Winter Tires
Many people believe that a good All-Season tire is just fine for driving in slippery and cold conditions. The truth is, All-Season tires are not made for snow or temperatures below freezing. Studies show that a set of winter tires can improve your vehicle’s ability to stop by approximately 40%.
Tires make a world of difference in every weather condition. When you’ve been injured in a car accident, elements like driving on the right tires can even contribute to who is at fault. So, get yourself a good pair of winter tires so you can make the switch when cold weather hits.
3. Add Extra Weight to Your Car For Better Traction
At some point, you’ve heard someone tell you to throw sandbags in your trunk for better traction in the snow. The truth is that if you have a front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive vehicle, you could be doing more harm than good. Adding weight to the rear of the vehicle will only cause uneven weight distribution. This only works with rear-wheel drive and winter tires are more beneficial.
4. Deflating Your Car’s Tires Helps to Improve Traction
This is a complete myth and for obvious reasons. You should never under any circumstances mess with the recommended tire PSI. Doing so can cause your tires to wear faster, increase your chances of a flat or a blowout, and your vehicle’s handling will be greatly compromised. In other words, this idea is an accident waiting to happen. Instead, check your tires often.
5. It’s Okay to Mix All-Season and Winter Tires
Experts agree that mixing any type of tire is a big no-no, especially when you’re mixing tires that have a completely different construction. Having all four tires match in size, inflation pressure, and construction materials is crucial to maintaining your vehicle’s stability and maintaining control in adverse weather conditions. Don’t try to save money by mixing and matching tires.
6. It’s Not Worth It To Wash Your Car In The Winter
Many people think it’s a complete waste of time to wash your car when it’s snowing because it’s just going to get dirty again. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The salt that’s used on our roads is one of the biggest contributors to the destruction of your car’s body. It will eat away the car’s finish and cause it to rust. Wash your car at least every other week during the winter.
