When people think about winter driving, there tends to be a negative, anxiety-filled reaction. Yes, it is an entirely different experience than summer driving, but that doesn’t mean it has to be downright uncomfortable.
With modern technology, it can be fun to drive during the winter and to feel safe and cozy inside your car with a snowy winter wonderland all around you.
It does take some experience and skill to be able to drive cautiously on slippery roads, and there are necessary strategies to get to your destination safely when traversing over treacherous terrain or through unpredictable weather conditions. But why not make the driving experience as pleasant as possible?
Beforehand, make certain to review your auto insurance coverage so that you know your policy is appropriate for you and your circumstances, such as frequency of travel, car safety features, where you live, where you work, and so on.
Protect yourself and your family from the unpredictability of winter by finding affordable car insurance so you can drive with a greater sense of calm.
Once you are legally ready to embark upon winter driving, let’s look at some ways technology can help you enjoy the experience.
1. Remote Car Starter
For people who hate driving a cold car, a remote car starter will make life easier, warmer, and simply more enjoyable. No more bundling up and running to start the car ten or 15 minutes before leaving. No more waiting for the car to heat up and have the heat decide to start 3 minutes before reaching your destination. With a simple press of a button on the key fob, the car roars to life, saving you time and decreasing the shiver factor.
2. Winter Wiper Blades
Windshield wiper blades take a beating, especially in the winter when there is ice buildup, snow, sleet, and whatever winter throws at them. Winter blades hold up to ice and snow builds up much better than regular blades. This means that your visibility, which is already likely limited due to precipitation, will increase, lowering your chances of having an accident.
3. Heated Seats
This is an option in most new cars, but it is also available to anyone who wants to have it installed in their existing vehicle. A cushion is added that is heated via the cigarette lighter. You can turn your morning (and evening) commute into a warm, toasty adventure. You might not even want to leave your car!
4. Windshield Washer Fluid Heater
This heater has a couple of uses that will help with winter driving efficiency. It is installed between the washer fluid nozzles and the tank, warming the fluid so that when you “ask” for it during cold weather, you’ll get it. No more frozen or clogged washer fluid nozzles. It also reduces wear and tears on the windshield wipers.
5. Emergency Kit
Take the panic out of any emergency by having the proper essentials already in your car. You can purchase your own or build one yourself. Items to consider include flares, snacks, sand, extra blankets, jumper cables, rope (for towing), flashlight and fresh batteries, cell phone charger, first aid kit, whistle, and hand warmers.
6. Heated Steering Wheel Cover
There are many different options to choose from based on the look and feel of your vehicle. You can choose from sporty and stylish to more elegant and traditional covers. Either way, it’s another way to take the chill out of a cold day, and it also helps with a better, tighter grip, improving your ability to maneuver the car.
7. An Effective De-Icer Spray
If you live in a wintry climate, you know that at some point you will walk out to a car encapsulated in snow and ice, virtually impossible to get into. The locks are frozen, the windshield has a solid layer of ice on it, and you’re stuck chipping away at the ice with your key. De-icer spray works on contact, allowing you to get inside the car, start it and warm it up, so you can more quickly and conveniently be on your way.
8. A Portable Air Compressor
You aren’t going anywhere if your tires are severely underinflated. With a portable tire inflator, you use your car’s 12-volt outlet to bring the tires back to life, which can come in handy if you’re nowhere near a gas station.
9. An Electric Car Blanket
Sometimes, warmed air from the car heater just isn’t enough. An electric blanket for the car makes any trip more enjoyable for the driver and the passengers.
10. A Compact Shovel
A normal-sized shovel would take up a lot of room in most vehicles. Fortunately, there are shovels available that break down into smaller units to make them more compact and easier to store inside the car.
Driving in the winter doesn’t have to be unpleasant. With a few additions to your vehicle, you may look forward to getting out onto the road.
Read Also:
Leave a Reply