Automobile Tips For Chicago’s Brutal Winters: Part 2

Winter driving in Chicago is no joke. You already read about the importance of driving slowly at all times, staying in contact with an auto body repair and collision repair shop, and making sure your vehicle is always filled with gas if it's going to sit in the snow for a while. But there are plenty more things you should be aware of if you want to get through another brutal Chicago winter.

Here are some additional tips for Chicago winter drivers to keep in mind:

Stay up to date with your car’s maintenance
If you aren't taking care of your vehicle yourself, you're risking a lot every time you get behind the wheel -- especially during the winter. In a recent survey, researchers found that an estimated 77% of vehicles were in need of maintenance or repairs. These cars can break down at any time on the roadways and can lead to major accidents. Visiting an auto body repair shop after a collision is one thing, but you need to take care of your car at all times, not just when something goes wrong. 

Pack extra clothes and emergency items
Another major mistake Chicago drivers make during the winter is not storing important items inside their vehicles. You never know when you're going to crash or spin off the road, so you should be fully prepared just in case. Pack some extra clothes and blankets in your car just in case you have to brave the snow for a while. You should also keep some snacks and beverages inside at all times as well as a first-aid kit. 

Avoid side roads if you can
Plows are doing their best, but they can't get to every single road in the city. If you really need to be somewhere during a winter storm, your best bet is to stay on the main roads and hope you can get behind a snowplow. If you try to get to your destination by side roads, you'll likely encounter much more snow and run the risk of getting stuck. 

Hopefully, these tips will help you this winter and every year going forward. Stay safe and take good care of your car! Whether you are in need of auto glass repair services, auto body repair, or auto paint shop assistance, River North Collision Repair is here to help get your vehicle back to normal and ready for more winter driving.