Road trip for the holidays. It needs to be remembered
During the Christmas season, many drivers drive the longest distance of the year. If only the atmosphere of returning home was reminiscent of the idyllic atmosphere of Chris Rae's famous song “Driving Home for Christmas”... In fact, traveling by car during the Christmas period is associated with hundreds of miles of rush and stress. caused by heavy traffic on the road.
Proper vehicle maintenance is more than an efficient engine
Before the start of the winter season, you should always check the condition of your car and its equipment. December is the last time you need to change tires for winter, especially before you go on a long journey. Winter tires provide driving safety through better traction in cold temperatures and snowfall. It is also worth checking the level of tire pressure and the tread depth, which in the winter season should be at least 4 mm. It is also very important to check the engine oil level and check the condition of the working fluids. Winter washer fluid is also very important, as is checking the health and cleanliness of the wipers and headlights.
The correct fuel in the tank - driving comfort and safety
The main action of every driver before setting off is refueling. However, few of them are aware of the impact of full filling and maintaining a high fill level on driving comfort and safety. This is very important, because the moist air that has accumulated in the tank condenses on its walls due to temperature fluctuations, thereby causing water to enter the fuel. It is also worth paying attention to the quality of refueling diesel fuel, which at low temperatures has a significant impact on the operation of a diesel engine. At freezing temperatures, paraffin crystals can form in the fuel, which prevent the fuel from flowing through the filter, which can cause problems with the smooth operation of the engine, and in extreme cases, cause the fuel filter to clog and stop. its operation. Arctic fuel is a good solution, as it guarantees engine start even at 32 degrees below zero.
See also: Fiat 500C in our test
Way of detention more than is commonly believed
The driver has an average of one second to notice and react to a hazard on the road. In addition, it takes approximately 0,3 seconds for the brake system to actuate. During this time, a car traveling at a speed of 90 km / h covers about 19 meters. In turn, the braking distance at this speed is approximately 13 meters. Ultimately, this means that we need about 32 meters from the detection of an obstacle to a complete stop of the car. Considering that, according to statistics, in a populated area we notice a pedestrian from a distance of no more than 36 meters, at a higher speed we no longer have a chance of an adequate reaction. In particular, remember that doubling the speed quadruples the stopping distance.
Vision may deteriorate at night
December days are some of the shortest of the year and many drivers take the tour at night to avoid traffic. However, in the case of longer routes, this can be a very risky decision, so it is worth taking special precautions. Remember that after dark, poor visibility can make it difficult for us to estimate the distance to other vehicles, and fatigue reduces concentration. Assess your capabilities and adjust your driving speed according to weather conditions. Snow or freezing rain, combined with poor road surfaces, means that the vehicle's braking time is greatly extended. Many drivers are in the illusion of the so-called "Black Ice". This occurs when a road that appears to be safe is actually covered in a layer of thin ice. In such a situation, even with a speed limit of 50 km / h, it is not difficult to collide. If possible, try to get on the road as soon as possible to get there before dark. When driving at night, let's take frequent rest breaks and take care of our bodies so as not to endanger ourselves, our passengers and other road users.
Equipment to the rescue
The Polish winter can surprise you, and the weather can be drastically different in different regions of the country. So if we haven't already, let's equip your car with basic winter equipment: a snow blower and window and lock de-icer. It is also worth taking with you connecting cables, a towline, waterproof work gloves and spare washer fluid.
