We have fairly mild winters in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, but driving on snow and ice or in extremely cold conditions can present both challenges and hazards. Godbey Law has developed a simple safety checklist to remind you and loved ones about important things to be aware of this winter on the road.
These are several quick things you can do on your own or stop into a qualified automotive service business. Most automotive service businesses offer low cost winter-related packages and are often free. We’ve also included the AAA recommended emergency kit list that they recommend everyone have in their vehicles.
Recommended Emergency Road Kit
- Mobile phone and car charger with important numbers programmed in it, including a roadside assistance provider
- Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats
- Snow shovel
- Snow brush
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Window washer solvent
- Ice scraper
- Cloth or roll of paper towels
- Jumper cables
- Gloves, hats and blankets
- Warning devices (flares or triangles)
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable snacks (energy or granola bars)
- Extra clothes
- First-aid kit
- Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
Wiper Blades – Blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots. In areas with snowy conditions, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade in a rubber boot to prevent ice and snow buildup that can prevent good contact between the rubber blade and the glass.
Washer Fluid – Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze components for cold weather use.
Tires – All-season tires will work well in light to moderate snow conditions, providing they have adequate tread depth. If any tire has less than 3/32-inches of tread, it should be replaced. Uneven wear on the tires can indicate alignment, suspension or wheel balance problems that should be addressed to prevent further damage to the tires. Check tire pressure more frequently during winter months. As the temperature drops, so will the pressures in the tires.
Battery Check – Have the battery and charging system tested by a trained technician. A fully charged battery in good condition is required to start an engine in cold weather. Check the condition of the battery cables and terminals. Make sure all connections are secure and remove any corrosion from the terminals and posts.
Drive Belts – Inspect belts for cracks or fraying. Don’t just look at the smooth top surface of the belt, but turn it over and check the grooved underside where most belt wear occurs.
Engine Hoses –Visually inspect the cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Also, squeeze the hoses to check for any that may be brittle or excessively spongy feeling and in need of replacement.
Coolant Levels – Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is low, add a 50/50 solution of coolant and water to maintain the necessary antifreeze capability. The level of antifreeze protection can be checked with an inexpensive tester available at any auto parts store.
Lights – Check the operation of all headlights, taillights, emergency flashers, turn signals, brake lights and back-up lights. Replace any burnt out bulbs.
Brakes – Have brakes inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order.
Transmission, Brake and Power Steering Fluids – Check all fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum safe levels.
Have you been injured in an auto accident?
Godbey Law in Cincinnati, Ohio, is an experienced personal injury law firm. We obtain compensation for the victims of car accidents, car-truck accidents, car-motorcycle accidents and other acts of negligence. Our firm can deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, with the aim of obtaining full compensation for your losses and suffering.
Call 513-241-6650 or send an e-mail [email protected] to arrange for a free consultation.
A lawyer at our firm can evaluate your situation and explain how we could help you get the compensation you need and deserve.
Serving People in Ohio and Kentucky
It is best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the injury so you don’t miss filing deadlines or risk saying the wrong thing to an insurance adjuster. Contact us online or by phone today at 513-241-6650 to learn about your legal rights and options.