The reality of winter is upon us. Even parts of the country that rarely see snow are experiencing winter weather conditions. With the snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, this is a good time to review some basic winter preparation and driving tips.

Be Prepared

Make sure your van is ready for winter driving. Our multi-passenger vans have numerous safety features and have been subjected to five-sided safety crash tests. They meet all of the American and Canadian federal and insurance standards. But even with all those features, making sure your van is in proper working order and ready for winter is essential for safe travels.

• Check your tires for proper inflation and adequate tread.
• Ensure that your spare tire is ready for use.
• Remove snow and ice from the windshield, windows, headlights, taillights, wiper blades, and top of the van.
• Keep a full tank of gas and windshield washer fluid.
• Make sure all exterior lights are in proper working order.

Plan ahead

It’s always a good idea to plan your route when driving conditions are impacted by inclement weather. Highways and interstates are cleared before roads and side-streets, so keep that in mind while planning. Check road and weather conditions before leaving, not while driving. It may take longer than expected to reach your destinations, so be sure to leave early and give yourself extra time to travel safely. Make sure that all passengers are wearing seatbelts and wheelchairs are properly secured. Don’t leave any loose cargo inside the van. Sudden stops can shift even the heaviest of boxes.

Stay Alert and Put Safety First

Bad weather conditions increase the likelihood of accidents, so it is important to be alert and put safety first. Be aware of how you’re driving and keep an eye on other drivers as well. It may sound like common sense, but reaction times are different when driving on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads.

• Don’t drive when you are tired.
• SLOW DOWN.
• Remember that it takes longer for vehicles to stop on slick, wet roads.
• Increase the distance between yourself and the car in front of you to allow more time and distance for braking, turning and stopping.
• Avoid sudden, quick movements.
• Do not use cruise control on slippery or wet roads.
• Use your headlights and be sure to signal turns well in advance.
• Bridges and overpasses freeze before roads, so use caution when crossing them.
• Be sure to keep a safe distance behind snow plows. 
• Carry an emergency kit that includes items such as jumper cables, flashlight with batteries, phone charger, ice scraper, flares, and a blanket.

Being prepared will provide peace of mind and help ensure that everyone in your conversion van arrives safely at their destination. Drive carefully and stay safe!