Driving Safety Tips for Louisiana Winters

Louisiana winters may often be mild, but they are also wildly unpredictable. Although snow and other winter considerations may be infrequent, it is still important to take some extra precautions to care for your vehicle in the winter. By doing so, you can ensure that your vehicle looks and operates ideally, no matter what changes the forecast may bring.

Here are just a few tips for keeping your car running smoothly all winter:

Get a Pre-Winter Check

Before the temperatures begin to dip, take your vehicle to a mechanic and ask them to check the battery, brakes, antifreeze level, heater, defroster, and thermostat to make sure that all are in working order.

Check Tires

Tires with inadequate tread will pose a hazard to drivers attempting to navigate the road in rain, sleet, or snow. Have tires rotated regularly to guarantee even wear, and replace as needed to ensure safety.

Check Lights

Visibility on the road becomes a very serious consideration during the winter when days are shorter and the darkness seems to creep in earlier and earlier. Check that headlights and taillights are all operational, as well as flashing hazard lights, should you need them.

Take Care of Paint

Harsh winter conditions can have a damaging effect on your vehicle’s exterior. While most may wash their car or truck more frequently in warmer weather, washing and waxing in winter months can help prolong the life of your paint.



These few tips will not only keep your vehicle running and looking great all winter, but they will also keep you safe in less than ideal road conditions. In addition to these considerations, there are a few additional steps you can take to boost your own safety:

Always Keep an Emergency Kit

Among the items you should keep on hand in an emergency car kit are a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, flashlight, extra batteries, flares, and jumper cables. To see a complete list, click here

Keep Your Phone With You

When traveling, always bring along your cellphone for safety purposes. Make sure it’s charged before you leave, and take along a car charger to boost your battery if needed.

Be Familiar With Your Route

Be aware of road and weather conditions before you travel, as well as of any areas such as bridges or overpasses that may be particularly hazardous in inclement weather.

Like we said, Louisiana winters can be very unpredictable. In fact, many of us joke about the drastic changes, not just from day to day, but from morning to afternoon to evening. We're not sure who the actual credit for this picture goes to, but we couldn't agree more: