It's begun... it's snowing, and whoever says they like it clearly hasn't driven down the large hill in Duluth.
Tourist love the snow, and honestly, we do too. It's beautiful to be around and one of the many highlights of living in the area. The only issue is driving.
Snow, ice, and reduced visibility make driving conditions challenging, even for experienced drivers. It doesn't matter if you have a 4x4, or have been driving for years. Every first snowfall, we see a ton of accidents.
At Elite Tinting and Graphics, your safety is our priority. We've compiled some essential tips to help you navigate Duluth's winter roads with confidence!
Enhance Visibility, Reduce Glare with Window Tinting!
Here's the one thing we can get done for you now - installing Window Tint on your vehicle!
Window tinting isn't just for the summer to block out heat. During the winter, you are drastically cutting down on the glare from the sun reflecting off the snow. You no longer have to squint while driving on the road, allowing you to better focus and see hazards ahead of time.
As an added positive, you also get to improve heat retention in your vehicle. keeping you comfortable during the cold winter.
It's all a one and done thing - you don't have to replace it every year. Do it once, and you're set for your car's lifetime. And if you aren't, you do have a lifetime warranty!
Give us a call, and we can get your vehicle tinted for you!
Winterize Your Vehicle
Before the first snowfall, ensure your vehicle is ready for winter.
How?
Here's your checklist:
- Install winter tires: Winter tires provide superior traction on snow and ice compared to all-season tires.
- Check your battery: Cold temperatures can affect battery performance. Have your battery tested and replaced if necessary.
- Top up fluids: Ensure your antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and other fluids are at the correct levels.
- Pack an emergency kit: Include a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, jumper cables, and other essentials.
Added stuff you can add, just in case you're ever stuck in traffic are some snacks!
Seriously though, prepare your vehicle now. As you go through the winter, snow tires will be harder to get, and if they have them in stock, the pricing is significantly higher.
Same with your fluids and battery. I know cars are already dying in the snow, and we're barely at the beginning of the year!
Prep your car, and you'll be good in the long run. Better safe than sorry.
Adjust Your Driving to the Conditions
For those who've lived in Duluth for a while, you probably already know the drill, this is just a subtle reminder. For those new, here's how you should drive in the snow to keep you and others safe:
- Reduce your speed: Slow down and allow extra space between your vehicle and others.
- Brake gently: Avoid sudden braking, which can lead to skids.
- Steer smoothly: Make gradual steering adjustments to maintain control.
- Increase following distance: Leave a larger gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
Be Aware of Black Ice
Black ice is a thin, transparent layer of ice that is difficult to see. It often forms on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.
Best thing to do, is just remain calm. Don't overturn your steering wheel as it'll cause you to lose control. Same with braking. Don't slam it or you will lose control of your vehicle.
Just gradually reduce your speed, and if you do start skidding, gently steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go.
Main thing is not to panic. Take deep breathes, it'll all be okay.
Make sure you stay informed about the weather conditions. Always check your latest forecast and road conditions, and expect it to get worse so you're always prepared.
Those are our quick tips to drive safely on the road. You probably already knew these, but it's always good to get a quick reminder.
Its not just your life, but it's also those around you. Let's drive safe for our community.
