Winter Driving

Tushar Mathur — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:25:34 +0000

Winter driving needs some extra attention, special skills, and lots of patience.
When ice or snow is covering the ground, the first thing to remember when going somewhere is to have plenty of emergency items with you. Blankets, coat, flashlight, flashers and standard items such as a spare tire and jack are items needed in case of car trouble. Bottled water and snack items are also a good idea to have in the trunk or glove box in case of long waiting hours for help.

When it comes to driving on ice, the rule of thumb is the slower, the better. Be in no hurry. Allow extra time to arrive to your destination. Also, be prepared for the slow driving conditions. It is best not to try to pass the slow moving traffic. They are driving at their comfort level, and are driving that speed for a reason. If you have a vehicle that features 4-wheel drive, do not be too comfortable with that feature. This feature might help with traction, but it will not help you stop any faster, or any safer.

Always drive with your headlights on, especially if ice or snow is currently falling. Make it a practice not to use cruise control on this type of road condition. Semi-trucks have an even harder time slowing down, so do not cut in front of them.

Intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shady spots have more potential to have black ice spots. Black ice is very difficult, sometimes impossible to see, and can cause your car to spin out of control in the blink of an eye.

One important way to decrease the chance of losing control of your car is to avoid sudden stops, hard braking, or quick acceleration of the car. Another way is to also slow down upon approaching areas listed above that harbor black ice. Also, allow plenty of extra time to slow down for a turn, or to even come to a stop at an intersection.

Watching ahead and behind of your vehicle is always a good idea. Making sure you know what other drivers on the road are doing can ensure you safely respond to them. Watching the brake lights of the second car in line ahead of you will give you extra time to know and respond to their stopping.

Following these tips, and using common sense in the winter months, will help increase your chances of arriving safe and sound.

Off-Road Driving

Tushar Mathur — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:57:48 +0000

New to off-road driving? Anxious to check out the four-wheel drive?
Here are just a few tips to keep you safe on the off-beaten path.

First, you need to do some preparing. Knowing how your vehicle works and what it is limited to is very important. You need to know what your vehicle is capable of, and stay within that range. Understanding your 4X4 system is equally important. Also, make sure that you are aware of your approach, ramp, and departure angles. This will help ensure no damage is created to your vehicle.

Become familiar with the feel of driving your 4X4. Start out with driving on dry, flat land to ensure the comfort of your vehicle. Knowing how your vehicle will handle during sharp turns, quick braking, etc. is also good practice.

Always be prepared for any kind of emergency. You never know when you might break down, and you should have supplies on hand. Flashlight, blanket, flashers, coat, spare tire and jack, etc are some items that should be carried in case of an emergency. Letting someone know where you are going and when you plan on returning from your off-road trip is also good practice in case you do have trouble. Not all areas receive cell phone service.

It is also a good practice to check out your vehicle before leaving. Tires filled completely, oil and other fluids at the correct level, including gasoline levels. Checking for tears or rips in hoses is also a good idea. This will help ensure a safe and fun trip and a prompt return home.

Make sure you are familiar with the path you are on. Make sure that the trail you are taking allows you the time to return home by the designated hour.

While on your off-road trip, make it a habit not to litter. It is just as illegal to throw out trash in the woods as it is in town or on a highway. Littering includes cigarette butts or food wrappers. Even candy wrappers are considered littering.

Know your limitations, and know the limitations of your vehicle as well. By taking some of these tips in consideration will help ensure a fun and safe experience in your 4X4 Off-Road adventure.

Travel - Eat - Sleep » Spare Tire

Winter Driving

Off-Road Driving