Call Toll Free 1-888-792-3595

Freezing temperatures can be hard on your car, make sure you are prepared for the coming winter months. Winter will be here before you know it!

The cooler weather is upon us already and before you know it the snow will fly causing tough road conditions and increased risk of getting into an accident. Living in Iowa usually means cold, harsh winters and the freezing temperatures that winter brings can be harmful and damaging on our cars. Before winter comes you should make sure your vehicle is in proper condition for your own safety and the safety of others. If you fail to maintain your car properly during the winter time you may be a hazard and cause an accident that could have been prevented.

Brakes: If you are hearing any noises or having trouble stopping you need to have them looked at right away. This could be deadly on icy roads!

Lights: All lights such as break lights and headlights need to be working at ALL times. During a blizzard this is usually the only way you can see other cars, if your lights are out you might get hit.

Engine: If your engine seems to be stalling or experiencing hard starts you should get this checked out and have it repaired. Below freezing temperatures happen quite frequently during the winter months in Iowa and are not easy on your vehicle’s engine.

Battery: Check your cable connectors, battery fluid, and battery posts. Having your battery die in the middle of a snow storm would be dreadful, especially if you have little ones in the car with you.

Tires: This is a major one. You need to examine your tires to check for their tread life and if there is any wearing. Having good traction on icy and snowy roads could save your life. You should also make sure they are properly inflated.

Windshield wipers: Make sure your blades are working properly and that they come in complete contact with your window. If they are falling apart or dried out they need to be replaced. This will give you a clear view and help to keep snow and ice off your windshield.

When preparing your car for winter you should also make sure that your heater and defroster are properly working, if you don’t have a defroster your chances of getting into an accident will increase significantly because more than likely your visibility will be reduced. Also, having heat in your car will keep you and your passengers warm in the cold winter temperatures. During the cold months it is a wise idea to keep a safety kit in your car in case you are in an accident or stranded somewhere. A winter safety kit might include items such as gloves, boots, blankets, water, snacks, and a flashlight.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident you may want to speak with an attorney before you talk to the insurance adjustor. You can protect your family by knowing your rights and what you should do in your car crash claim. Attorneys Corey J. L. Walker and Erik D. Bair of Walker, Billingsley & Bair practice primarily in personal injury cases (which include car accidents) and are dedicated to giving your case the personal attention that it needs. If you would like to learn more about car accident claims you can request a Free copy of our Injured Iowan Book by calling 1-800-707-2552 ext. 810 or visit IowaCarAccidentBook.com