Towing in DFW has increased as winter weather is in full swing and Titan Towing is always ready and available to help with your towing needs. Although we have not yet had a significant ice or snow event this year, it’s good to keep in mind some winter weather driving tips before one occurs.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDOT) reminds us that information on road conditions around the state are available at DriveTexas and they offer these driving tips to ensure a safe commute in DFW, and around the state, during the winter months.
Driving Tips
Slow down. Speed limits are based on normal road and weather conditions, not winter road conditions. Also remember to:
- Maintain at least three times the normal following distance on snow or ice.
- Watch carefully for snow removal equipment and stay at least 200 feet behind snow plows.
- Use extra caution on bridges, ramps, overpasses and shaded areas as they tend to freeze first.
- If your vehicle starts to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you have regained traction. Then straighten your vehicle.
In addition to TxDOT tips, to avoid the need for towing in DFW, the Texas Department of Insurance offers some additional cold weather driving advice such as:
- Winterize vehicles before you get on the road. Have a mechanic check the battery, antifreeze, wipers, windshield washer fluid, ignition system, thermostat, headlights, hazard lights, exhaust system, heater, brakes, defroster, tire pressure and tread, and oil level. If necessary, replace existing oil with the manufacturer’s recommended type and grade of winter oil. Keep your gas tank full.
- Plan ahead. Choose the safest routes and times of day, and allow plenty of time for travel. Drivers should exercise patience, because trip times increase in winter weather.
- Buckle up. Drivers and passengers should always wear seat belts, especially when children are passengers.
- Stay sober-minded. Consuming alcohol or taking prescription or other drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, vision, and reaction time.
- Stay in the vehicle if you are stranded or stalled. Drivers should carry a charged cell phone or two-way radio to call for help and notify authorities of their location.
The National Weather Service recommends keeping an emergency winter supply kit in your car that may contain:
- cell phone, charger, and extra battery
- battery-operated or hand-crank radio
- jumper cables
- spare tire
- flares
- blankets or sleeping bags
- flashlight with extra batteries
- first-aid kit
- water (1 gallon of water per person per day for at least three days)
- non-perishable food and a manual can opener
- warm clothing
- matches
- sand or cat litter
- snow shovel and brush
- windshield scraper and brush
- basic tool kit (pliers, wrench, screwdriver)
- tow rope
- compass
- roadmaps
Following winter weather driving tips and having an emergency kit may lessen your need for a tow in the winter months. However, if you, or a friend, needs towing or roadside assistance in DFW, Titan Towing is available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
