Check the tires, lights, fluids, and make sure to have a spare tire (a real one and the tools to change it -- not just a donut tire).

Before embarking on a long drive, give your car a once-over.

Nobody likes driving in the winter—the freezing temps, snow and ice-covered roads, and multiple layers of clothing can be much. But it's an unavoidable part of life for most folks, and for your safety when behind the wheel, you should remember these three words: drive smarter, not harder.

You don't need to avoid the roads and fly down them like your hair's on fire, but driving smart is essential to stay safe all winter. How do you do that exactly? Read on to find out!

Driving in icy conditions can be especially dangerous, so it's essential to be extra cautious when the roads are slick. Here are some things to keep in mind when driving on ice:

When driving in winter, breaking slowly and sparingly is important. When stopping suddenly on a slippery road, the car may skid out of control. Excessive force applied to the brakes can trigger a slide or worsen an existing drift. Driving too fast is the leading cause of winter driving accidents, so it is important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and use brakes sparingly on icy roads..

2. Increase Your Distance From The Car Ahead

Taking extra caution when driving in winter weather is essential for safety. Increasing the distance between you and other cars can help ensure everyone stays safe. This will help reduce the chance of an accident due to icy or snow-covered roads requiring a greater stopping distance than on dry pavement. Think of this space as a collection of opportunities to stop; the more extensive the collection of opportunities to stop, the better. Using better judgment when picking routes in these conditions is also important.

Black ice is a dangerous road hazard, particularly during winter. It cannot be easy to spot due to its glossy sheen and is more likely found in shaded areas, quiet roads, bridges, flyovers, and tunnels. Avoid swerving or slowing down if you encounter a patch of black ice by keeping your hands on the wheel and your pace steady. If you need to slow down, utilize the gears instead of the brakes.

Skidding on ice can be a frightening experience, but it is important to remain calm and take the proper steps to correct the skid. The first step is to steer gently in the direction of the skid. This will help you regain control of your vehicle and prevent it from spinning out of control. It is essential not to take your hands off the steering wheel or brake hard, as this could cause further loss of control. You should also steer in the same direction as the skid moves, as this will help you regain traction and keep your vehicle from sliding further.

Driving in snow can be tricky, especially if you're not used to it. If you have to drive in the snow, consider these suggestions:

Driving in cold weather can be challenging, especially if your vehicle isn't prepared. It is important to warm up your vehicle before driving, as this will help the engine perform better and heat up faster. Before moving your car, let it idle for 30 seconds to a minute. This will give the oil time to circulate and warm up the engine. Also, keep your petrol tank filled, and your battery charged. You should also change the oil filter and oil to a thinner grade for cold weather conditions.

It is essential to clear ice and heavy snow off your vehicle before driving. This will ensure you have an uninterrupted view of the road ahead. Avoid using hot water to defrost your car. Instead, use a good quality ice scraper, de-icer, or homemade spray of rubbing alcohol and water to clean the windscreen. Ensure the inside window is clean in all directions so you can see clearly out of every window. Check to see if the rear-window defroster is working correctly too.

It is important to remember that driving at a slower speed is ideal in all circumstances, especially in snowy conditions. The recommended safe driving speed in the snow is half what you usually drive. Keeping your vehicle in first or second gear on snow or ice will give you more control and traction.

With the proper equipment and planning, driving safely in the snow is possible. The most important thing to do is ensure your car is ready for winter driving. Check the tires, brake pedals, and battery to ensure they are in good condition. Installing skid chains or snow tires will also help improve grip on the road. Additionally, having a snow shovel, bag of salt and tow strap handy can help you if you get stuck in the snow.

Rainy driving can present a challenge, particularly for inexperienced drivers. If you must drive in the rain, consider these safety measures:

One way to stay safe while driving in the rain is to ensure your car is visible. You can do this by turning on your headlights any time you drive, even during the day. This helps other drivers see you better.

In addition to using your headlights, you should ensure that your lights and reflectors are clean and unobstructed. Use a soft cloth to wipe it away so that other drivers can see you from far away. Keep a supply of spare light bulbs in your vehicle if one burns out while driving.

One of the most important tips for driving safely in the rain is to beware of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning is when your tires lose traction on wet roads, and the vehicle can skid or swerve out of control. It happens quickly during heavy rains because water accumulates on the roads faster than it can evaporate, creating large puddles that your tires may slip through.

The best way to prevent hydroplaning is to slow down and drive at a moderate speed when it's raining. This helps your tires stay in contact with the road better instead of skidding across it. Also, ensure your tires are properly inflated and use tread depth appropriate for wet weather driving. Newer cars often come equipped with 'rain mode' traction control, which can also help prevent hydroplaning, so be sure to familiarize yourself with this feature if your vehicle has it!

One of the essential tips for driving safely in the rain is to slow down and turn off cruise control. Wet roads can lead to reduced traction, and a decrease in stopping distances, so reducing your speed is critical. This will help ensure you have time to react to unpredictable road conditions, like standing water on the roadway or hydroplaning.

Driving at a low speed is vital to avoid the splash from puddles and large potholes. When driving in heavy rain, stay in the center of your lane so that water doesn't flood your tire wells or force you off course. Slow down around bends and curves because they tend to be even more dangerous during heavy rain.

Driving safely in icy, snowy, and wet conditions takes practice and skill. Knowing how your vehicle reacts to icy conditions is vital before going on a long-distance winter trip. Practicing driving on snow and ice in a safe environment, such as a local parking lot, can help you become more comfortable handling your vehicle in these conditions.

12 Winter Driving Tips For Staying Safe On The Road

Saving money and getting the car you need doesn't have to be mutually exclusive; this is especially true when you buy a used car. It may take some effort to find a good deal, but overall, used cars are a more cost-effective option when factoring in expenses such as insurance, registration, sales tax, and depreciation. Additionally, many cars are now built to last and can keep running for over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance.

To get the best deal on a used car, you should know how the process works and what to look for. Consider the following tips to help you find the best-used motor vehicle:

Sure, you could purchase from a franchise dealer or used-car lot—but they'll often want top dollar for their rides. On the other hand, you're always taking a chance on that private sale.

When searching for pre-owned cars, it's best to stick with dealers who specialize in the vehicle brand you're interested in. Many brands offer Certified Pre-Owned cars (CPO) which are certified by the manufacturer through a series of rigorous safety checks and inspections, and also come standard with extended warranties. Best yet, going directly through a dealer means they can't ignore you if problems arise after you buy the vehicle. A car dealer won't want to tarnish its reputation by selling a problematic used vehicle to the public.

Buying a car from a private seller can be quite a gamble. You might get lucky and find the perfect ride that someone's desperately trying to offload, or it won't last 'til morning - so keep reading on to learn what kind of due diligence is necessary if you decide to go this route.

It's essential to weigh age against vehicle price. Cars that are too new will be expensive, whereas a car that's past its prime may require expensive repairs and be harder to find parts for. That's why TrueCar recommends buying a used car around 3 years old to get the best balance between reliability and cost. By choosing a car that is three years old, you can expect it to be in good condition and cost up to 40% less than its newer counterparts.

It's also essential to consider other factors when purchasing a used car. You need to consider the car's age, mileage, and any manufacturer-made customizations when deciding how much it's worth on the open market.&nbsp;Mileage plays a huge role when it comes to pricing a car.&nbsp;If the car has been well maintained and has low mileage, it could be worth investing in an older model with more features. However, if the car was improperly maintained or has high mileage, it may be better to opt for a newer model with fewer features but better reliability.

 Ultimately, finding a fair price depends on your needs and budget.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbb.com/">Kelly Blue Book</a> is an online tool to help you accurately estimate the price any car (new or used).

When you talk to the seller of the vehicle, make sure to be clear and concise when asking your questions so they can provide a detailed response. Don't hesitate to ask any follow-up questions if anything is unclear.

The first question you should ask is if the seller is the car's original owner. This will give you an idea of the vehicle's upkeep history and mileage. It's also a good idea to inquire about the availability of service records, which will reveal the frequency and nature of any previous repairs or maintenance.

Obviously you should also verify that the title is clear and that there are no liens on the car. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to ask if any additional information not included in the advertisement could affect your decision to purchase.

Pulling a vehicle history report is an excellent way to save yourself from auto buyer's remorse. It can provide vital information about the car's past, such as its service and repair records, ownership history, and if it was ever in an accident. You can get a copy of the report using either the vehicle identifying number (VIN) or license plate number. AutoCheck and Carfax are two of the most well-known sources for vehicle history reports. Still, many major dealers also offer them free if they have the vehicle in their inventory. If a dealer refuses to give a Carfax or Autocheck report, you should either go elsewhere or look into obtaining one yourself. Don't buy the car unless you have reviewed the history report.

Before taking a test drive of any car, it is vital to give the vehicle an initial inspection. This should include checking for engine, oil pressure, brake fluid, and airbag warning lights. Taking a test drive route that includes curves, rough pavement, hills, and highways is an excellent way to get a good feel for how the car performs in different conditions. Turn off the radio so you can focus on the car's performance.

When test-driving a car, it is also essential to ask for proof of ownership and the insurance policy from the current owner, as you may be liable for damages if there is an accident. Additionally, make sure to ask to see a photo ID and take a photo of it before test-driving the car. During your test drive, inspect the electrical systems, test the steering wheel, heater, a/c, windows and locks, headlights, brake lights, indicators, brakes, stop-and-go performance, and cruise control on the highway. By doing this, you will be able to get a better understanding of the car's condition.

When buying a used car from a private seller, it's crucial to have a mechanic inspect the pre-owned vehicle before purchasing it. After all, when you buy secondhand, you might not get an accurate idea of its condition until you look at the entire vehicle. An inspection can help uncover hidden problems that could cost you down the line if they're left unaddressed. Private-party sellers are usually relaxed about having a car inspected, but dealers may push back. Expect to pay $100-$300 for the inspection fee.

Here are some things you can look for before you give it for inspection:

Return policies are an essential part of the car-buying process. When buying a used car from a dealer, ask them what their return policy is like and get it in writing before purchasing. Some states have regulations requiring dealers to offer buyers three days to cancel the sale and return the car, but the federal government does not mandate this. In other states, only the dealer can offer reimbursement for returning the car within a few days. This is sometimes called a "no questions asked," money-back guarantee, or "cooling-off" period return policy by dealers.

Carefully read any return policy before signing contracts or agreements with a dealer. Ensure you understand all the terms and conditions to make an informed decision when purchasing a vehicle. Knowing your rights ahead of time can help protect you from any potential issues should you need to take advantage of a return policy.

Buying a used car can be tricky business. In the heat of the moment, you can get too caught up in how the car looks and forget to check or be aware of some important details. Failing to line up financing beforehand can cost you more money at the dealership, and buying based on looks often leads to empty promises that don't last past the showroom floor. The best way to ensure you end up with a dependable car is by researching, looking for signs of maintenance, and ensuring it has a CarFax report. And even if it does have all the marks you're looking for, it's always good practice to take it for a test drive before signing any dotted lines at the dealership.

How to Buy a Reliable Used Car: 7 Pro Tips

So you're zooming along on your way to an important <a href="/tips/careers-work/10-top-online-job-interview-tips">job interview</a> when you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. With your heart racing, you pull over, but before you know it, you've been issued a speeding ticket! Not only is it frustrating and costly, but it can also ruin your day. Here are some tips to dispute that speeding ticket and potentially have it dropped.

1. Request Documentation of Radar Gun Calibration

This strategy may be more effective in certain regions of the United States and may vary by state. Before your court appearance, request copies of any photographic evidence or notes taken by the officer regarding the incident. During your court hearing, ask the officer to provide proof that the <a href="https://www.radarbusters.com/How-to-Beat-You-Ticket-in-Court-s/2382.htm">radar gun was properly calibrated</a> in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

When you were pulled over, make a mental note of any other factors that may have influenced the radar gun's reading effectiveness, such as nearby large trucks, inline or declines on the road, or whether you were going around a corner. These observations can be used to call the accuracy of the radar gun reading into question during your defense.

Delaying your court date gives the officer more time to become unavailable, which can increase your chances of the judge dismissing the case.

4.&nbsp;Consider a Trial by Written Declaration

Fighting your ticket by mail may seem like a pain, but it can actually increase your odds of beating your case. After delaying your court date, request instructions for a trial by mail. You'll be given information on fees, how to submit forms and testimony, and can even request evidence through discovery for the "calibration" information of the radar gun. Additionally, the officer must submit written testimony. The upside to this option is that the officer doesn't get paid for paperwork and does for court appearances, and by the time the officer writes their testimony, they may have forgotten certain details of the incident.

&nbsp;If you end up losing your case by mail, you can elect to have a <i>new</i> trial in person with a different judge. This is an opportunity to confront the officer, submit evidence and make your argument in front of a judge.

Even though it's tempting to try to fight the ticket on your own, consider&nbsp; opportunity cost. A traffic attorney is an expert with dealing with such cases and can save you a lot of anxiety, stress, and time. You should be aware that not all ticket dispute services are created equal. A proper traffic attorney can help you navigate the legal system and increase your chances of having the ticket dismissed, whereas some "ticket clinics" only help you write a letter which you can do for free. If your ticket is $500 and the traffic attorney is $300, not only will you end up saving money, but also your time as you won't have to attend the court hearings or deal with paperwork.

Fight and Beat Your Speeding Ticket: Tips to Dispute and Win in Court

Winter weather can make scraping ice off of your windshield a laborious and time-consuming task. By placing a sheet or towel on your windshield, it will absorb the moisture and prevent it from freezing and sticking to the glass.

To ensure that the towel stays securely in place, tuck the corners into the hood of your car. And when it's time to hit the road, simply remove the towel and watch as your neighbors take envy and start copying your genius tip.

When it's snowing, place a towel on the windshield so you don't have to scrape the snow/ice off.

If you get condensation in your headlamps in your vehicle you can "bake" it dry. Remove the headlamp housing from your vehicle and make sure all bulbs are removed. Set your oven to 250 degrees. Place the headlamp on a piece of wet cardboard and check on it every 5 minutes until you're condensation free.

"Bake" condensation out of your headlamps

If you've got a tight garage and find yourself constantly banging the car doors on the walls and chipping the paint in the process, try this tip out.

Prevent your car doors from hitting the walls of your garage by nailing pool noodles or soft foam in line with your car doors.

Careful with motorcyclists! My mom did this once and he drove up next to her and gave her a stiff middle finger. To her credit, she didn't intentionally do it -- she just wanted to clean her windshield.

Want someone to stop tailgating you? Turn on your windshield wipers.

Jumper cables, a small jack, four way lug wrench, road flares, and maybe a MRE or two.

Always carry the roadside essentials in your vehicle.

This will provide evidence if you ever return it and are accused of damage that you didn't cause.

When renting a vehicle, always record a video of its current condition when you first get in.

Have a stubborned oil filter and it‘s too tight to get a wrench in there? Use sandpaper to grip it.

Don‘t put 93 octane gas in your car if it doesn‘t need it. It will not give you more horsepower. Instead it‘ll leave deposits in your engine.

Higher octane doesn‘t do anything for your car if it doesn‘t need it. 

They can, occasionally, be less congested.

Before embarking on a long drive, give your car a once-over.

Mehr Autos & Fahrzeuge Tipps

12 Winter Driving Tips For Staying Safe On The Road

How to Buy a Reliable Used Car: 7 Pro Tips

Tips to Fight and Beat Your Speeding Ticket

Use a Towel to Easily Remove Ice From Your Windshield