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(ARA) - Looked at a calendar lately? Time sure is flying! It seems like just yesterday you were enjoying those long, sunny days out by the lake. Now you’re counting down the days till Thanksgiving and Christmas; but the holidays aren’t all you should be thinking about. The most wonderful time of the year is also the most dangerous time of year to be on the roads.
According to the AAA, loss of visibility, slick roads and poorly maintained brakes lead to thousands of accidents every year, and the highest number of weather-related injuries and fatalities occur during the wet and snowy months of winter. But there are precautions you can take to help prevent accidents, and to be prepared, just in case.
Now -- before the flakes start flying -- is the time to winterize your vehicle! Start by making sure it is well maintained and in good working order. Here’s a checklist of things to inspect:
* Check all fluids and replenish if necessary.
* Have your vehicle’s battery checked to make sure it is strong enough to make it through the winter.
* Check tire tread depth and tire pressure; consider special tires if snow or ice are a problem in your area.
* Check to see that all lights work and headlights are properly aimed.
* Be certain the heater and defroster are working properly.
* Change your windshield wiper blades if your current ones are worn or UV damaged to ensure good visibility during the season’s rain or snow storms.
It’s always good to be a defensive driver, but it’s especially important in inclement weather. Good winter driving depends on using common sense and adjusting your driving to weather conditions.
* Keep your gas tank full to minimize condensation, and provide an extra margin of comfort and safety in case of delays.
* Don't use your cruise control or overdrive when it's freezing (or colder).
* Trucks take longer to stop, so don't cut in front of them.
* Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It helps you get going quicker but won't help you stop any faster.
* Add weight to the rear of your car or truck for better traction. If you drive a car, add weight to the trunk by using sandbags. If you drive one of the more than 38 million registered trucks on the roads, you should add weight to the truck bed. This can be done with a Line-X Spray-On Truck Bedliner. The liner adds about 50 pounds of weight to deter rear wheel skids. It also provides lifetime protection against the rust and corrosion that can form quickly in winter weather.
Finally, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Here’s a list of some items that will come in handy if you’re stranded:
* Basic safety equipment such as emergency cash, scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow chain, and bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction.
* A breakdown kit that includes road flares, blanket, gloves, boots, warm clothing, flashlight, extra batteries, food, water, and first-aid kit.
* A CB radio or cellular phone can be a lifesaver for you or another stranded motorist in the event of an emergency or collision.
These tips and a little common sense will keep you and your family safe on the road this winter.
For more information on Line-X Spray-On Truck Bedliners, or to find the dealer nearest you, visit www.linex.com or call (800) 831-3232. Line-X has close to 500 locations across the United States.