January driving

I T ' S   J A N U A R Y !!!! and January can surely mean dealing with changing road conditions! Winter is a time of adjusting to "new normals"--WEATHER being one of them! Driving in winter weather should be carefully anticipated. When traveling, your awareness of what your vehicle can handle makes a significant difference when facing the changing roads of mid-winter.

With wild winter conditions possible, it is the time of year, to consider what you are up against with regards to the weather possibilities, and your vehicle's capabilities in the snow and ice. Planning for bad weather is part of life here in the Gallatin Valley: allowing an extra 15 minutes for meeting any unforeseen issues in that 6 mile drive; having needed supplies when going on a road trip, and the understanding to effectively use them, are wise precautions. It is part of dealing with the hazards, and can make for simpler transportation and relieve extra stresses. Be thinking ahead of time about what your car  can do under extreme conditions--freezing temperatures and sideways snowfall from the windy blizzard conditions. If you know that you'll be driving over a pass that has the reputation for being extra dangerous,  know what you need before hand. Before you leave it might be good to check and consider some things -
1st - Do you keep a small shovel in the back of your vehicle? 
2nd - Do you have tire chains accessible when you need them?
3rd - Do you appreciate the uses and advantages of an anti lock brake system when things get icy? 
4th - What's your first reaction when sliding on a frozen road?
5th - How about bringing an extra coat, hat and gloves, and blanket?

So, next time you see it begin to snow, know the best plowed route to take, and go through the steps that will get you there safely. Dial 511 to find out the current road conditions if you are traveling for any distance. You can even look at a picture of current conditions at passes in the state via the Montana State Highway Department's website employing onsite cameras.

Additionally, it can be helpful to pack a few extra cleaning supplies for a trip, so that if you are facing ice melt stains, and that extra icy, muddy mixture that will build up, you can be prepared to combat the problems!  And, by the way, if you are in need of that midwinter cleanup, give us a call to ask about our detail options, or check us out online. You'll be glad you did!

Posted by Bryon: Bryon is the promotional marketing man for SHINES AUTOS METICULOUSLY. He is an avid graphic design artist who enjoys working to bring creative ideas, through writing and visuals, to the detailing business.

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