Winter Safety

Mountain driving can be much different than driving through flatter areas of the country. Steep inclines, tight switchbacks and altitude can present unique challenges, especially for inexperienced drivers.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you drive through the Colorado mountains:
• Keep your speed low. Slower speeds help you stay in control of your vehicle. Never travel down a mountain faster than you can go up it.
• Watch your vehicle’s temperature gauge. If your car overheats, pull over as quickly and safely as possible. Turn your car’s heat on full blast and call someone for help. Never remove a hot radiator cap.
• Stay in your lane and keep a safe distance from the center line. Hugging the center line may feel safer than driving near the edge of a steep drop, but doing so could cause oncoming traffic to swerve and cause an accident.
• Cars traveling uphill have the right of way. When traveling downhill through narrow passageways, give oncoming traffic extra room when possible.
• Shift to lower gears when going up steep hills. Lower gears provide more access to horsepower, allowing you to have better control over your vehicle.
• If you are traveling slowly and there are more than three vehicles behind you, pull over as soon as safely possible to allow them to go around your car.
Maintain Your Vehicle
A properly maintained vehicle is less statistically likely to be involved in an at-fault accident. Before winter weather sets in or before you travel into the Colorado mountains, get your vehicle winter ready with these tips:
• Check and top of fluids.
• Change your oil and check for leaks.
• Change your windshield wipers.
• Check your brake pads.
• Replace your tires if necessary.
• Test your battery.
• Make sure your heater works properly.
It’s wise to pack a winter emergency kit for your car before you set out on a drive through the mountains. Consider including a phone charger, flashlight, blankets, first aid kit, a small shovel, water and non-perishable food.
How to Get Winter-friendly Auto Insurance
Auto insurance coverage is highly customizable, so if you live in Colorado, you may want specific coverages and endorsements to help cover the particular risks faced by Colorado drivers.
Contact J J Insurance in Denver, Colorado, to learn more about how to get appropriate auto insurance at a great rate.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.