Drivers are 20% more likely to be involved in a road accident during the winter months, according to Insure the Box. Icy road conditions and poor visibility contribute to this risk. But when you’ve splashed out almost $60,000 on a luxury vehicle, you need to ensure that you’re doing all you can to keep your car on the road for as long as possible, as well as protecting your own safety.
Thoroughly clean your car
After any snowfall, it’s essential that you remove all traces of snow from your vehicle, including your car’s sensors and camera. In some states in the U.S., it’s even against the law to not do this. By removing the snow from everywhere, you avoid the risk of snow suddenly falling onto your windscreen and impacting your vision, or it hitting another car and affecting their visibility. If you’re ever in a situation where you’re involved in an accident and are injured as a result of another driver not clearing their car appropriately, you may want to seek the advice of a professional attorney, who will investigate all aspects of the incident and help you with your case. By doing this, they’ll ensure that all legal aspects of your case are dealt with, including getting you the settlement you are owed.
Utilize your luxury’s vehicles features
Stopping distances in icy weather are up to 10 times greater than in dry weather conditions, but even leaving a large gap between you and the car in front won’t stop you from skidding on the ice. Utilizing the Pilot Assist in your luxury vehicle will ensure that your vehicle maintains a safe speed and distance while you’re on the road. Autonomous Emergency Braking can also help to keep you safe in icy conditions if you skid, as when it identifies that there is an obstacle in the road, it will bring your vehicle to a stop.
Change the way you drive
When it’s not possible to avoid driving, you should change your manner of driving. For example, when you’re driving uphill, drive at a constant speed, and avoid gear changes. Similarly, when you’re driving downhill, avoid braking, and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front. As a general rule, you should drive in as high a gear as possible, and when pulling away, do so in second gear rather than first to avoid wheel spinning.
Winter driving offers some of the trickiest driving conditions, but there’s no need to worry about your safety or the condition of your luxury car when driving this winter: these tips will protect you both.
