HAPPY HOLIDAYS

To You, Your Family and Staff

From Everyone at Lancer Insurance Company

THE GIFT OF SAFE WINTER DRIVING

The first sign of trouble was the condition of the road. It was snow covered as the salt trucks had not yet arrived. Next was the visibility, nothing short of terrible, where seeing other vehicles meant they needed to have their lights on. Some did, many didn’t. Then came the condition of the truck. Its wiper blades, covered with ice and snow, were in poor condition and keeping the windshield clear was next to impossible. The driver was truly unable to properly see the road ahead. Then the accident unfolded. The truck was rounding a downhill curve when the driver attempted to slow down just a bit. Foot pressure on the brake pedal was just enough to send the trailer skidding across the center line toward opposing traffic. Several on-coming cars, following one another tightly, were close enough that what happened to one would surely involve them all – and it did.

The crash was not a disaster, but to those involved, it was close. Their vehicles were towed from the scene and they became pedestrians on a morning when each person would have preferred to have safe and reliable transportation.

Here are some important steps to take that can help prevent winter accidents:

• Your vehicle needs to be in top condition, with good tire tread, all of the lights working and windshield wipers in condition to do the heavy work ahead of them. Take the time to prepare for winter driving.
• Expect poor traction. Traction keeps your vehicle headed where you want it to go. Rain, sleet, snow or ice can cripple your ability to control your vehicle. Driving slower generally improves traction. Slow Down!
• Visibility can be very bad on winter weather days. To be seen, keep your headlights on to help others see you. Having lights-on gives an early warning to approaching or intersecting vehicles and reduces risk. 
• Steer clear of other vehicles. Space is a good friend in winter driving. Allow extra space around you and your vehicle. Space ahead and to the sides gives you room to react, to slow, even to stop without becoming involved in a bad situation.