Winter driving in New Jersey can be hectic. Not only do you have to dodge potholes, but you also have to deal with icy roads, snow, freezing temperatures, wind, and reduced visibility. Of course, all these things also increase the chance of getting into a car accident. While road safety measures, such as salting and plowing, help reduce hazards, winter conditions require extra caution and awareness from drivers. Understanding how winter weather impacts driving, what to do after a car accident, and how to prepare your vehicle for the season can make a significant difference in staying safe on the road.
Key Takeaways
- Winter road hazards such as black ice, snow accumulation, and reduced tire traction increase the likelihood of accidents, especially during early morning or late-night hours.
- Winter weather can worsen collision damage, leading to issues like corrosion from road salt, frozen components, and decreased brake and steering responsiveness.
- Vehicle preparation is essential for winter driving. Installing winter tires, checking the battery, and maintaining fluid levels can improve safety.
- Adapt driving habits to winter conditions by slowing down, increasing stopping distance, and avoiding sudden maneuvers to prevent skidding or losing control.
- Elmer’s Auto Body offers expert collision repair, helping South Jersey drivers recover from winter accidents and restore their vehicles to pre-accident condition.
Winter Weather and Road Hazards
The past few winters in South Jersey have been mild, yielding little snow and some frozen rain. Plus, counties have start brining the roadways before the precipitation begins falling, making it safer for commuters to travel. However, there is always a chance of a major snow event, one that causes road hazards you need to be mindful of, including:
- Black Ice: One of the most dangerous winter driving conditions is black ice, which forms when moisture freezes on road surfaces. It’s nearly invisible and can cause a vehicle to lose traction suddenly. Black ice is most common during early morning or late-night hours when temperatures drop.
- Snow Accumulation: Snow-covered roads reduce visibility and can make stopping or maneuvering difficult. Even if roads are plowed, packed snow can create slick surfaces, increasing the chance of accidents.
- Reduced Tire Traction: Cold temperatures harden tire rubber, reducing its grip on icy or snowy roads. This is why vehicles with winter tires, designed for better traction in cold conditions, perform more safely than those with all-season tires in freezing weather.
How Wintery Weather Worsens Collision Damage
You may be wondering, “Can having an accident in the winter be worse for my vehicle?” The answer is yes. Wintry weather has a tendency to worsen damages, making it all the more essential to get repairs done in a timely manner. Here are some ways winter weather worsens collision damage:
- Increased Risk of Corrosion: After a collision, any exposed metal or paint damage can be worsened by road salt and moisture, leading to quicker rust and corrosion, especially on the undercarriage and wheel wells.
- Frozen Components: Freezing temperatures can cause fluids, like oil or transmission fluid, to thicken. If there is damage to key components in a crash, cold weather can worsen the damage by reducing the vehicle’s functionality.
- Slower Response Times for Brakes and Steering: In cold weather, brakes and steering systems may not respond as quickly, which can amplify the damage during an impact.
- Weakened Tires and Battery: Cold temperatures reduce tire traction and battery efficiency, which could exacerbate the effects of a collision by causing difficulty in controlling the vehicle or power loss during or after the accident.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Safe Driving in the Winter in New Jersey
Proper preparation can reduce the risk of winter accidents and keep your vehicle running safely throughout the season. Consider the following steps:
- Winter Tires: Installing winter tires improves traction on snow and ice, providing better handling in freezing temperatures. Make sure your tires have sufficient tread depth.
- Check Your Battery: Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, so ensure your car battery is in good condition to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Maintain Fluid Levels: Check antifreeze, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid levels. Low or thickened fluids can compromise vehicle performance.
- Inspect Brakes and Lights: Fully functioning brakes and lights are crucial in winter conditions, so have them inspected before the cold season hits.
- Pack an Emergency Kit: Carry essentials such as blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a shovel, and traction aids in case you become stranded.
It is also important to adapt your driving to the weather. Rather than racing through snow, slow down a little. Increase your stopping distance. Consider downshifting when approaching patches of visible ice, even in an automatic vehicle. There is no reason to tailgate or to make sudden movements, as these actions can cause skidding and loss of control.
Looking for Collision Repair in South Jersey?
Winter driving can be unpredictable, but by taking precautions and preparing your vehicle, you can reduce the risk of accidents. In the event you do get into an accident, you will need the services of a professional collision repair center in South Jersey. Whether you’ve hit a patch of black ice, slid into another vehicle, or experienced damage from packed snow, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We specialize in collision repair, ensuring your vehicle is restored to pre-accident condition. Our team of professionals can assess the damage, repair dents, fix paint scratches, and address any internal issues caused by the collision.
For drivers in South Jersey, Elmer’s Auto Body provides trusted, high-quality repairs to keep you safe on the road. Contact one of our South Jersey locations today for a repair estimate or to schedule an appointment.