Winter is a tough time to get around safely on the open road, but a little preparation will make it much less dangerous. The experienced towing professionals at Ron's Service & Towing in Fairbanks, AK, have seen the hazards that arise when you drive on icy roads, so they have some advice for preventing the most common winter accidents. 

To stay as safe as possible throughout the hazardous months of winter, you should: 

• Check Your Tires in Advance: Well-maintained tires will go a long way toward preventing accidents and making the roads safer for all. Always make sure they have the correct air pressure before hitting the road, and look into getting a tire change if your current set is showing signs of wear and tear. Try the penny test — which involves inserting a penny into the grooves and making sure Lincoln's head isn’t completely showing — to determine if your treads are too shallow. 
• Avoid Abrupt Braking: No matter how prepared your vehicle is, you will need to adjust your driving habits for the winter. Skidding is a serious concern this time of year, so always accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid abrupt stops. To make this even more effective you should increase your following distance from other vehicles on the road, especially if you're in the middle of inclement weather conditions. 
• Eliminate Potential Distractions: Keen awareness can mean the difference between safe arrival at your destination and a sudden rear-end collision. Phones, loud music, and other passengers all act as potential distractions, so make sure you have your priorities straight. Remember, everything else besides driving — including something as simple as changing the station — can wait.

The more attentive and prepared you are for your travels, the less likely you will be to encounter any winter accidents. If you find yourself stuck for any reason, however, you can depend on Ron's Service & Towing for 24-hour pickup and affordable, high-quality auto repairs. Visit them online for more information on towing and roadside services, and call them at (907) 456-4224 to request service at any time.