Avoid a Wreck the Halls Situation
The holidays are a joyful time, but they also bring traffic jams, icy roads, and tired drivers trying to do too much in too little time. We see it every year: a last-minute run to the store turns into a fender bender, or a long family trip ends with someone stuck on the shoulder waiting for help. As a towing team that handles Saint Louis roadside assistance daily, we want to help you stay off our truck beds and spend more time celebrating.
It only takes a small misstep for a winter road trip to go sideways—literally. Slippery roads, distracted driving, and neglected car maintenance can all increase the odds of needing a tow. Let’s talk about a few smart ways to reduce your risk and keep your holiday travels safe and stress-free.
Keep Your Car in Holiday Shape
Before you hit the road for any holiday travel, take a little time to prep your vehicle. A quick check now can save you hours waiting for Saint Louis roadside assistance later.
Start with the basics:
- Check your battery. Cold weather drains battery power fast, and weak ones often die without warning.
- Top off fluids. Windshield washer, oil, coolant… keep them all filled and fresh.
- Inspect your tires. Good tread and proper pressure go a long way on icy streets.
- Replace old wipers. Clear visibility is everything when snow and salt coat your windshield.
If anything seems off, have it checked by a mechanic before you hit the highway. A little prevention can go a long way.
Plan Your Route and Your Backup
We all love a good GPS app, but don’t let it be your only plan. Winter storms and heavy traffic can throw a wrench into your perfect itinerary. Make sure someone knows your route, and check weather forecasts before you go. If road conditions look risky, wait it out or find another way.
Avoid backroads that don’t get plowed often and keep your fuel tank at least half full just in case. Running out of gas in the cold is a quick way to find yourself calling for Saint Louis roadside assistance.
Don’t Drive Drowsy or Distracted
The holidays wear us out. Between work deadlines, school events, and shopping trips, it’s easy to get behind the wheel more tired than we realize. If you’re yawning, zoning out, or relying on coffee to stay awake, it’s time to pull over and rest.
Distracted driving is just as dangerous. Put the phone away, turn down the music, and keep your focus on the road. Multitasking can wait until you’re safely parked.
Know the Signs of Trouble
We’ve helped more drivers than we can count who noticed something wrong but ignored it until they broke down. Don’t be that driver.
Watch for:
- Odd smells or smoke
- Strange sounds under the hood
- Dashboard warning lights
- A sudden pull to one side
If your vehicle starts acting up, it’s better to stop somewhere safe and call for help than risk being stranded in a snowbank.
What to Keep in Your Winter Emergency Kit
Every winter car should have a few key supplies on board. If things do go wrong, you’ll be glad to have them:
- Blanket or extra coat
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Small shovel
- Non-perishable snacks and bottled water
- Phone charger
These basics can make waiting for Saint Louis roadside assistance a whole lot easier and safer.
Ives Towing: Here When You Need Saint Louis Roadside Assistance
We hope your holiday season is smooth sailing. But if things do go sideways, we’ve got your back. At Ives Towing, we provide reliable Saint Louis roadside assistance to help get you out of trouble fast. Whether it’s a dead battery, a flat tire, or a slippery slide into a ditch, we’re just a call away.
You can avoid calling us by following these tips, but if the unexpected happens, you’ll be glad to have a local team who knows how to handle Saint Louis winter roads. Saint Louis roadside assistance is what we do, and we’re proud to be part of keeping drivers safe all season long.
Stay alert, drive smart, and let’s all try to keep the tow trucks off your holiday itinerary. Happy holidays from all of us at Ives Towing!
FAQ
What should I do if my car starts sliding on ice?
Take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming the brakes. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, press the pedal firmly and steadily.
How often should I check my tire pressure in winter?
Check it at least once a week. Cold air lowers tire pressure quickly, which can affect grip and handling on snowy or icy roads.
Is cruise control safe to use in winter?
No, avoid using cruise control on icy or wet roads. It can reduce your ability to react quickly if the vehicle starts to lose traction.
What time of day is safest for winter driving?
Mid-morning to early afternoon is usually best. Roads are more likely to be plowed, and there is better visibility than at night or early morning.
Can cold weather affect my car battery?
Yes, freezing temperatures reduce a battery’s ability to hold a charge. Older batteries are especially vulnerable and may need replacing before winter.
What should I pack for winter road trips?
Bring warm clothing, a flashlight, phone charger, snacks, water, jumper cables, and a shovel. These items can help keep you safe in an emergency.