Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Provides Tips on Safe Driving For Spring Season

Both the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) and the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are offering tips on how motorists can stay safe now that Spring has finally arrived.

“Warmer temperatures are a great cure for cabin fever brought on by a harsh winter, like the one we had this year in New York,” said Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder. “A lot of New Yorkers will be anxious to hit the road and shake their winter blues. By making sure your vehicle is ready for the season and adopting a few simple practices, you will help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the roads.”

Motorists should check and also rotate their tires before heading on a Spring. Both the GTSC and DMV say cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, and with more frequent warm-ups, you should ensure your tires are at the manufacturer’s recommendation. Snow tires should also be swapped out.

Your wiper blades should also be changed out; ice and slush can take a toll on the efficiency of your wiper blades. Wiper blades should also be replaced every 6 months or so. In addition to replacing wiper blades, your air filters should also be replaced. Pollen, dust and other allergens will surge in the spring season and a clean filter will reduce them getting into your car cabin.

Other tips include:

• Top up fluids. While the car is cool, check the engine oil, brake fluid, transmission and engine coolant levels.
• Replace air filters. Pollen, dust and other allergens surge in spring, making it an excellent time to check and replace air filters. A fresh cabin air filter improves air quality inside your vehicle, while a clean engine air filter ensures optimal fuel efficiency and performance.
• Update your vehicle emergency kit. In addition to a first-aid kit, jumper cables and a tire repair kit, it’s important to stock your car with warmer weather supplies, such as bottled water, sunscreen and a flashlight with fresh batteries.
• Test your car battery. Car batteries work harder to power vehicles during the winter months. The best way for your car battery to maintain or regain its charge is to take longer drives, lasting around 30 minutes, on a regular basis.
• Clean and tighten the battery terminals to ensure they are free of any corrosion and have your battery load tested to ensure it’s working properly.
• Inform a responsible person of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival.