Safe through the winter
This year it is once again really wintry and the snow has come after all. We have put together 3 important tips for all drivers on how to behave on the road in these difficult conditions.
1. Good winter tires
If you are still driving around in the snow with summer tires, you have probably missed the right moment to change your tires. If you don't want to take public transportation, you should make an appointment as soon as possible to get your tires changed. In Switzerland there is no legal requirement for winter tires, but it can still be dangerous – if you don't want to do without your car despite the lack of winter tires, you should be very careful on the road. Depending on the circumstances, in the event of an accident with summer tires in snow or winter temperatures, the benefits of the insurance can be massively reduced.
If you don't want to drive in winter anyway, you can deposit your license plates at the road traffic office and save money on car insurance.
There is a so-called 4x4x4 rule for winter tires. Tires should be in use for a maximum of 4 years, have at least 4 millimeters of tread depth, and all four tires should be of the same quality.
2. Always scratch the car completely free
Every year it's the same thing, and it's always the same hassle: scraping windshields on your car. Nevertheless, there is no way around it, because safety on the road should have first priority. In addition to the windows, the roof, rear view mirrors and rear lights must also be cleared of snow. Snow flying off the roof can endanger the traffic behind you or block your view if it slides onto the windshield while braking. So: Always clear the ice from your car, because if you don't do it, you put yourself and other road users at great risk.
So you efficiently and effortlessly scrape their car free:
- Allow sufficient time in the morning to scrape the car.
- Always have snow broom, ice scraper and gloves in your car.
- Take a sponge with you to clean the windows that have fogged up from the inside.
- A de-icer spray helps extremely, saves time and already the wipers.
Who does not want to scratch or spray, can cover his car each evening with a cover or at least cover the windshield with wool blanket or aluminum mat. A parking heater helps to de-ice the windows while you yourself are still waiting nicely in the warmth. Comfortably wait in the warmth they can also with some of our latest models, because they are remotely preheatable. Or you can put your car in the underground garage (if available) and save yourself the scratching.
3. Always have the right equipment with you!
If you travel by car in ice and snow, you should always have certain things "on board". Here's a short list of things we at Volvo would recommend you take with you.
- Snow chains
- Egg whisk
- Ice scraper and de-icer spray
- Winter windshield washer fluid that does not freeze
- Tow rope
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Wool blankets
- First aid kit
The jumper cable is needed especially in winter because it is cold and the battery is more stressed. This increases the risk that the car will not start. It is also advisable to always have a cell phone with a full battery so that you can contact someone in case of an emergency. Oh yes, if you can't find your ice scraper: A credit card will do!
You need other accessories, material, good winter tires or a car that is absolutely winter-proof? Then get in touch with your local Volvo dealer. He will be happy to advise you how to get through the winter well.