Personal Insurance Blog

So far, winter has been fairly mild in Massachusetts. We have had just a few inches of snow, and not many especially cold days. But don't let your guard down, because winter storms come on quickly. 

We would like you to be safe this winter; most of the time that means driving a little more sensibly and defensively.   Here are a few tips to keep you safe:

• This may sound simple but you just need to slow down and keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.  This may sound simple, and it is, but you are really not going to get to your destination any quicker by riding the bumper of the car in front of you.   Also, when you think about a 20 mile drive to work that may take you 35 minutes, if you go 10 MPH over the speed limit, that might get you to work 3 minutes earlier??  Not worth the risk!

• Tires are very important.  They need to be safe with proper tread and proper inflation.  Keep in mind that the tires lose pressure in the cold weather.  You should double check with somebody who knows tires.  Most Sullivan Tire locations are happy to help you if you stop by one of their locations. 

• There are so many more vehicles on the road that are All Wheel Drive or have 4 Wheel Drive.  Keep in mind that although this can help you get through the snow at the end of your driveway, they do NOTHING to help you stop any quicker!

• Watch driveways and intersections very carefully.  As the snow piles up it gets more and more difficult for drivers to see to pull out, be ready in case somebody does.

• There is a reason why your car needs a Safety Inspection every year.  You want to be sure that your headlights, break lights, wiper blades, etc. are all in working order.   You can go to PRAC.com and sign up to get reminders of inspections even if your insurance is with another company. 

• Keep supplies in your car.  What if your car breaks down or gets stuck in a snowbank and you are dressed in that fancy dress with those cute little heels?  What would you do?  You want to be sure that you have a pair of warm shoes or an extra pair of boots in the car and an extra coat with a hat and mittens.  A wool blanket is great to have.  It can keep you both warm and dry. 

With that all in mind, enjoy the snow and be safe!!