Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter: Car Insurance in New Bedford
The more you can do to properly prepare your vehicle for the harsh realities of winter, the easier it will be for you to survive the icy and snowy roads of New England. There are a few things that you can do right now in the fall months to protect your vehicle and passengers when snow, sleet, and ice hits the Greater New Bedford region. Your New Bedford insurance agent has lots of great options and opportunities for you to consider when it comes to affordable auto insurance coverage in MA. It’s one thing to lower costs and save on your premium, but another to make sure you will be covered in the event of an accident, theft, or another type of claim. Make sure to choose car insurance in New Bedford that is right for your vehicle. Contact a trusted New Bedford insurance agent at Borden Insurance Agency.
Tip #1 – Create an Emergency Kit
One of the best things you can do to prepare for inclement weather when driving is to create a seasonal emergency box. You can keep most of the items in your trunk and then put the box in the backseat when driving in snowy or icy weather. Make sure to always keep your proof of car insurance in New Bedford in your vehicle, alongside your proof of registration, emergency contact numbers, and other essential paperwork. Other must-have items should include a flashlight, basic first-aid kit, some warm blankets, a change of clothes for the driver, two ice scrapers, a radio, extra gloves, a charged cellphone, or fully-charged cellphone charger, a compactable shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction. High-energy snacks, a couple of bottles of fresh water, road flares, and other vehicle emergency items should also be included in your winter car kit.
Tip #2 – Get a Check-up for Your Vehicle
Before the winter weather hits the local area, schedule your vehicle for a check-up with your trusted mechanic or car dealer. In addition to affordable auto insurance coverage in MA from a trusted New Bedford insurance agent, vehicle maintenance can be the best line of defense to prevent winter car problems. Check the engine coolant, antifreeze levels, battery, and make sure you are current on oil changes and other fluid checks. Take time to take care of these common issues that plague New England drivers during the late fall and winter months by addressing them before they become a problem.
Tip #3 – Winter Tires and Tire Pressure
Depending on the type of vehicle you own, you might need to consider getting winter tires. Some cars are just fine with standard, all-season tires, as long as they have good tread depth and are filled to the proper pressure. Good tires will help you stay on the road, avoid collisions, and ensure that you don’t get stuck in the snow or on the ice. A simple tire gauge can help you stay on top of the pressure if your vehicle does not come with a computer read-out that includes pressure detection. You can fill up your tires with air at local gas stations or have it done whenever you bring your vehicle in for service. While some years have more snow than others, it always pays to be prepared just in case.
Tip #4 – Winter Fluid Changes
While it is essential to make sure the fluid levels in your vehicle are in the safe zone throughout the year, there are some special products that can be used during the winter months that can provide extra protection. Consider using a winter windshield wiper fluid that includes a special additive that prevents it from freezing when used on your windshield. Consider replacing your wiper blades right before winter hits so they will be ready to knock off all that snow and ice while you are driving. Check out options for winter-grade oil products when you get your next oil change. Make sure it is okay to use it with the make and model of vehicle that you own for best results.
Tip #5 – Quality Insurance Matters
Contact a friendly New Bedford insurance agent at Borden Insurance Agency by calling 508-999-3636 to learn more about the options available for affordable auto insurance coverage in MA. There are many insurance companies in New Bedford to choose from, but we have been around for more than 100 years and have earned the trust and respect of our customers. Call today to get a FREE quote for car insurance in New Bedford from Borden Insurance.