Mercury's Experts Provide Handy Tips for
Winter Driving Challenges
LOS
ANGELES, Dec. 19, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Winter
road trips can be an exciting adventure, yet they are not without
risks. Drivers must remain vigilant and prepared for any potential
hazards such as rain, snow, ice, wind, or the combination of all
four.
"Driving during winter months comes with significant
responsibility and caution," said Kevin
Quinn, Vice President of Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance
(NYSE: MCY). "Encountering diverse weather throughout your road
trip will impact the driving experience. Challenging conditions can
test even the most seasoned drivers, making safety essential."
Quinn offers the following suggestions for those finding
themselves driving through heavy rain:
- Slow down and increase following distance: exercise caution,
reduce speed, and maintain a three-second driving gap for
safety.
- Use proper lighting: Ensure visibility by turning on headlights
and tail lights without using high beams, which can illuminate the
rain and make the road harder to see.
- Handle your vehicle with care: Avoid abrupt movements, grip the
steering wheel with both hands, and stay in the middle lanes to
minimize hydroplaning risks.
- Defog your windows: Maximize visibility by defogging windows
before – and while – driving.
Driving through snow introduces additional challenges,
especially for first-time drivers or those who don't live in snowy
climates. While it's advisable to hit the road only when absolutely
necessary, it is possible to drive safely in winter weather with
the right preparation and a heightened sense of caution. Here's
how:
- Winterize your car: Address tire traction and consider
purchasing winter tires before you travel. Keep an emergency kit
with essential supplies in your vehicle where it is easily
accessible.
- Remove snow and ice: Ensure clear visibility by removing all
snow and ice from your vehicle before hitting the road.
- Driving in snow: Drive slower than normal, use AWD or 4WD if
available, and leave extra distance between cars.
- Check rearview mirror: Always check your mirrors when changing
speeds to prevent rear-end collisions.
- Respect snowplows: Maintain a safe distance from snowplows to
avoid impaired visibility.
- Be on the lookout for black ice: Exercise caution, especially
at night, as thawed snow may refreeze and create black ice.
- Don't use cruise control: Avoid using cruise control in wintry
conditions for quicker reaction time.
Before embarking on any road trip, make sure your auto insurance
is up to date and that you've winterized your car. With proper
preparation, cautious driving, and reliable coverage, drivers can
confidently navigate winter weather.
For additional driving safety tips, visit:
https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/auto/how-to-winter-ize-your-vehicle.html
https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/drive-safe/distracted-driving-statistics-survey-results.html
https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips
https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/driving
About Mercury Insurance
Mercury Insurance (NYSE: MCY) is a multiple-line insurance
carrier predominantly offering personal auto, homeowners and
renters insurance through a network of independent agents in
Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New
Jersey, New York,
Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia, as well as auto insurance in
Florida. Mercury writes other
lines of insurance in various states, including commercial,
business owners and business auto, landlord, home-sharing,
ride-hailing and mechanical protection insurance.
Since 1962, Mercury has provided customers with tremendous value
for their insurance dollar by pairing ultracompetitive rates with
excellent customer service. Mercury has earned "A" ratings from
A.M. Best and Fitch, as well as "Best Auto Insurance Company"
designations from Forbes and Insure.com. For more information visit
www.MercuryInsurance.com or follow the company on Twitter or
Facebook.
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SOURCE Mercury Insurance