Proper vehicle maintenance is key to safe winter travel

Winter in Wisconsin, brings months of slippery conditions and subzero weather, so preparing vehicles is key to a safe season. Winter vehicle safety is the Wisconsin State Patrol’s January Law of the Month, and is an opportunity for every driver to make sure essential equipment is working properly, before getting behind the wheel.

“A well-maintained vehicle is always important, but especially in harsh winter conditions,” said superintendent Tim Carnahan. “When you’re driving in winter conditions, don’t just prepare for the trip you anticipated, prepare for the unexpected.”

Before going check the following things regularly:

• Keep fuel tank at least half-full, to prevent fuel lines from freezing and provide extra fuel if stranded; make sure electric vehicles are fully charged.

• Check condition of battery, anti-freeze, lights and cooling system.

• Replace worn windshield wipers and fill up washer fluid.

• Have an emergency kit in every vehicle; include essentials like a blanket, flashlight, cell phone charger and shovel.

Proper tire care should also be part of every driver’s vehicle maintenance routine, and can help prevent breakdowns and crashes. Tires are one of the most important safety features on a vehicle.

“Your safety and the safety of others depends on the effectiveness of the four tires of a vehicle,” said Carnahan. “The tire tread keeps a vehicle from slipping and sliding, in wet or icy weather, so it’s essential to take care of your tires.”

It’s recommended to check tires and spares monthly for the following:

• Pressure – Fill each tire to the manufacturer’s recommendation, to improve gas mileage and help tires last longer.

• Tread – Depth should be at least 2/32 inch in every major tire groove.

• Replace when seeing Pres. Abraham Lincoln’s head if a penny is inserted in the tread.

• Damage – Repair cuts, bumps or cracks as needed. Before heading out in active weather, keep visibility in mind. State law requires drivers to turn on their vehicle’s low-beam headlights, any time weather or other conditions make it difficult to see objects 500 feet ahead. Turning on the lights also helps ensure other drivers see the vehicle, to avoid crashes.

Clear snow and ice from windows, lights, the roof and hood. It’s required by law and keeps everyone on the road safer. Snow and ice sliding off the roof, or blowing off the hood can be dangerous to other vehicles. Icy windshields can limit visibility and lead to crashes.

Last season, winter weather contributed to more than 15,000 crashes, that killed 38 people in Wisconsin.