Safe Winter Driving & What to Do After a Winter Collision

Winter in North Central West Virginia can be beautiful, but it also brings hazardous road conditions, including snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Safe winter driving is crucial to avoid accidents, but if a collision does occur, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference. Whether you're navigating slick roads in Buckhannon or heading to the mountains, follow these tips to stay safe and handle a winter accident properly.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

1. Slow Down & Increase Following Distance Ice and snow reduce traction, so allow extra stopping distance between you and other vehicles. Drive at reduced speeds to maintain better control.

2. Check Your Tires & Brakes Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated. Winter or all-season tires provide better traction. Have your brakes inspected to ensure they’re in top condition.

3. Keep Your Windshield Clear Always remove ice and snow before driving. Use winter windshield wiper fluid and replace worn-out wiper blades.

4. Brake & Accelerate Gently Sudden movements can cause skids. Brake gently to avoid losing control, and accelerate slowly when starting from a stop.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials like blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks.

   
   

What to Do If You’re in a Winter Collision

Even with safe driving, accidents can still happen. If you find yourself in a winter collision, follow these steps:

1. Ensure Safety First

   • If the accident is minor, move your vehicle to a safe location if possible.

   • Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

   • Check yourself and passengers for injuries and call 911 if needed.

2. Document the Scene

   • Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any contributing factors like icy patches.

   • Exchange insurance information with the other driver.

   • If applicable, notify law enforcement to file an accident report.

3. Contact Your Insurance Provider

   • Call your insurance company to report the accident and begin the claims process.

   • Provide details about the incident, including photos and police reports.

   • Follow their instructions regarding estimates and repairs.

4. Get Professional Collision Repair

   • If your vehicle is damaged, trust Jenkins Ford Collision Center in Buckhannon, West Virginia for expert repairs.

   • They specialize in restoring vehicles after winter collisions using state-of-the-art technology and precision repair techniques.

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Expert Collision Repair at Jenkins Ford Collision Center

When winter weather leads to an accident, you need a trusted collision center to restore your vehicle. Jenkins Ford Collision Center in Buckhannon, WV, offers top-quality repairs with cutting-edge technology:

✅ PPG™ Paint Process – Ensures a flawless color match and a durable, long-lasting finish.

✅ State-of-the-Art Paint Booths – Advanced booths maintain ideal conditions for seamless paint application.

✅ Chief Laser Frame Straightening – Ensures your vehicle’s frame is restored to factory specifications for safety and performance.

With a reputation for excellence in North Central West Virginia, Jenkins Ford Collision Center is your go-to destination for professional auto body repair after a winter accident.

Stay Safe & Be Prepared

While winter driving can be unpredictable, following safety precautions can help you avoid accidents. However, if a collision does occur, knowing how to handle the situation and trusting the experts at Jenkins Ford Collision Center will get you back on the road safely and efficiently.

Drive safely this winter, and remember – when the unexpected happens, Jenkins Ford Collision Center in Buckhannon, WV, is here to help! 🚗❄️