Drivers have to make adjustments as the temperature outside drops. There is a lot of great information about winter road safety. However, it is important for you to avoid believing the common myths.

• Myth: You Have to Warm Up Your Vehicle Prior to Driving
  • Fact: There is a reason that this myth has been around for so long. Cold weather causes the oil in your engine to thicken. That is why it can take extra time to get the oil flowing to the engine. However, it typically only takes about 20 seconds to get the engine flowing. Therefore, driving your vehicle is the only thing that you have to do to warm up the engine.
• Myth: You Can Improve Traction By Adding Weight to Your Trunk
  • Fact: This does make sense in theory. However, it is only beneficial if your vehicle has rear-wheel drive. It is also important to remember that the added weight will cause your vehicle to use more fuel.
• Myth: You Should Partially Deflate Your Tires to Improve Traction
  • Fact: Many people think that they can improve traction by deflating the tires because more of the tire is coming in contact with the ground. However, you will get the most traction if your tires are fully inflated. In fact, it can be harder for you to handle your vehicle if it is under-inflated.
• Myth: You Should Melt Ice By Pouring Hot Water on the Windshield
  • Fact: You should not pour hot ice on your windshield. This will crack your windshield. The windshield is not designed to handle a sudden, drastic change in temperature. The best thing that you can do is choose a homemade de-icer. You can mix one part water with two parts rubbing alcohol. Spray it on the windshield. You can also manually scrape off of the ice.
• Myth: Winter Tires Are Not Important
  • Fact: Many people believe that winter tires are a waste of money. However, winter tires are designed to provide you with a better grip on the road. In fact, winter tires can improve your ability to stop fast in snowy and icy conditions by 30 to 40 percent.