In the winter period, all vehicle accidents increase by about 20%. For this reason, it is possible that it is more important that you follow certain road safety recommendations before and during your relocations.
Road safety before departure…
Check the levels of all the fluids in your vehicle: oil, transmission fluid and antifreeze Before any trip it is important to ensure a correct level of oil, transmission fluid and antifreeze or coolant. The latter is most necessary when we face the low winter temperatures, due to its It functions within the internal circuit of the motor.
Keep the antifreeze fluid at the engine's optimal operating temperature, around 90 °C. On the other hand, it prevents when negative temperatures are reached, freezing occurs in some part of the circuit, or which would cause more cooling of the engine that would cause serious mechanical problems. Checking the antifreeze level is very easy. Once the vehicle is placed on a flat surface, simply open the car hood, locate the liquid tank (green, blue, yellow or orange, depending on its properties) and see if its level is between the maximum and minimum. That is, for our safety, we must carry out this operation with the cold engine.
Swap regular tires for winter tires These tires have greater adhesion, since they are specially designed for use at low temperatures or when we encounter snow, cold or ice on the road. As these diminui-se the cliff de sair da faixa de rodagem, para além de melhorar notablemente a travagem , o que se traduz numa redução da distância de paragem. These advantages are achieved thanks to a deeper design in the tread, whose objective is to improve the evacuation of water and snow, and some small cuts in the brake pads in relief, which significantly improve in addition to the movement of both the snow and the slat.
Also for its special chemical composition that maintains the flexibility of the drinks at low temperatures, improving its adhesion and handling. To identify a winter tire you will have to look at the side of the tire, where the M+S code will appear (Mud and Snow, or next, Lama e Neve), in addition to a pictogram formed by a mountain with three beacons and a snow floco on its interior.
If we have the winter tires fitted, also check that these are in perfect condition: no cuts, no cracks and that their replacement pads are not smaller than 1.6 millimeters. Once these checks have been completed, it is necessary to ensure that the press is also adequate (the car manufacturer will indicate the appropriate level of a cast auto-coalant normally not on the driver's door).
The currents are not sketched
Embora do not have to be stationed permanently, and it is important to keep the baggage holders in case it snows suddenly. Both traditions and fabrics are quite effective, but make sure you know how to install them correctly. It is preferable to learn to place them with time and patience, without waiting to be surprised by a situation in which you suddenly find it necessary. Their placement is simple, but better to practice.
Cuide da sua visibilitye
The importance of vision at this time of year is more relevant than our situations with a more favorable time. The hours of daylight are noticeably reduced and driving with cars is not outside. Therefore, it is important to check the status of all vehicle lights, including front lights , before any relocation. You must also take care of the cleanliness and condition of two remaining elements that influence your good visibility: headlights, windows, windshield wiper system and mirrors.
Comprove o seu equipamento
As we have already seen, winter is the time of year in which a greater number of accidents and traffic disturbances are recorded. For this reason, it is of utmost importance that, in addition to the tail and reflective triangles, a V16 light signal such as the Help Flash , which is not only approved, is also especially recommended for situations in which adverse weather conditions put the driver on the cliff during driving. Signaling of a traffic incident.
Its design is compatible with any climatic situation, allowing you to view the stopped vehicle up to a kilometer away. In these types of situations it may be interesting to also have other auxiliary items, such as a blanket, a lantern, a telephone charger or a small basic first aid kit, or even a set of ropes with pins that will help if there is no battery due to the low temperatures. Allow us to be at the forefront when we start the trip and we will be prepared for any scenario.
Road safety on the road…
Increase at a safe distance
Guarantee a margin of space for maneuver, in case of feared skids, caused by the presence of snow, snow or ice.
Reduce speed
In winter, tires usually lose traction capacity, especially when the road is wet, so it is important to drive at a slower speed than normal. No sudden accelerating, high gears or slow grinding, traveling at this or less possible speed.
Evite as ultrapassagen
In adverse weather conditions, excessive driving can cause fatal accidents.
Maintain a stable temperature inside the vehicle
If the outside temperatures are low, maintaining an approximate temperature of around 21 °C will prevent the glass from fogging, making it difficult to see.
Faça mais paragens
Especially on long trips, it will help reduce fatigue, releasing tension and allowing muscles to lengthen.
