Whether you are driving in sunny Tampa or fighting the winter storms of Toronto, you need to be able to see what is in front of you. Not only do you want to be in a vehicle that other drivers on the road see, but you want to be able to see the road clearly. It only takes a small blurring mark in your field of vision to cause you problems on the road.
When you can’t see clearly, you put yourself and your passengers at risk of an accident. You don’t want to end up in a crash and need the services of a Toronto or Tampa Car Accident Attorney. You can’t always control weather conditions that affect your visibility and safety on the road, but there are some factors that you can influence.
Keeping your vehicle well maintained is key to staying safe on the roads. Regular windshield cleaning and wiper inspections are just a few ways to increase your visibility. Let’s take a closer look at a few ways to improve your visibility when driving.
Cleaning
Most gas stations provide a windshield cleaning center that you can use when you stop to fill up. Using a simple wash brush and squeegee, you can remove dirt, mud, splattered bugs, and spots from your windshield in less than a minute. Take the time to wash your front and back windows while at the gas station.
Cleaning the inside of your windshield may be just as crucial as the outside. If you are a smoker or like to travel with your windows down, your interior windshield can have a film buildup that restricts your visibility. Using a clean microfiber cloth soaked in hot water, clean your inside windshield every few weeks for the best results.
Mirrors
When you are driving, you should be using your mirrors to help you see the other traffic on the roads. Before you hit the road, make sure that all of your mirrors are properly adjusted and clean. Your rearview mirror should be centered on your back window and create a clear view without having to move your head. Your side mirrors should also be adjusted for easy viewing. Try to include as much of your blind spot as possible in your side mirror view.
Wipers
Your windshield wipers provide a crucial service in keeping your windows clear from rain, sleet, and snow. Over time, your wipers can age and become less effective. If you notice that your wipers are leaving streaks or squealing as they move across the glass, it may be time for a replacement.
Fluid
When traveling through wet slushy snow, your windshield doesn’t take long to become filthy. Your windshield wiper fluid can help keep your windshield clear and visibility high. Before leaving the house, make sure you have enough fluid for your trip. You can also carry an extra bottle of fluid in your car in case you need to top up your reservoir.
Headlights
Driving at night can be treacherous if your visibility is hampered. Your headlights help to lead the way when you are driving after dark. Ensure that your headlights are working properly, are correctly tilted for the best road lighting, and are cleaned of any dirt, mud, or grime.
To keep your vehicle and family safe when you are on the road, you need to have the highest level of visibility. Follow these tips to help you see clearly on the road.
