It’s Snow Time In Washington

In the western part of the Washington state, people are now preparing for snowstorms. But sometimes, some people still try to travel despite such dire weather conditions. In the end, they only lose to Mother Nature. They have to abandon their vehicles - auto parts and all - and find their way to safety.

But did you know that there is a right way of abandoning your vehicle during snowstorms? Yes, there actually is and that is according to PEMCO Insurance, one of the largest auto insurance companies in Washington. The spokesperson for PEMCO, Jon Osterberg, even shares that the best thing to do would be stay out of the roads and rather just stay inside their homes.

Anyhow, I do hope you do not get caught in a snowstorm, but if fate has destined you to be in one, let me share with you these tips I caught at The Auto Channel.

• Try to get as far off the traveled roadway as you safely can.
  
• Turn on your flashers, and leave them on. A dead battery is better than causing an accident for which you could be held responsible.
  
• Set out flares to warn other drivers, if you can safely do so.
  
• Make a reasoned judgment about whether to remain with the vehicle and call for help, or to strike out on your own. Some factors to consider are your health, clothing for the weather, distance to the nearest help, and likelihood of your vehicle being hit while you're inside it.
  
• Leave a note in the window with your contact information. That improves your chance of hearing from someone who hits your vehicle, or from the authorities.
  
• Take your most valuable items with you.
  
• Be sure to remove personal information that could allow a thief to locate your home and loved ones, steal your identity, or otherwise defraud you.
  
• Secure the vehicle by setting the emergency brake and locking the doors. Professional towing companies know how to safely tow your vehicle.
  
• You can prevent having to abandon a vehicle by monitoring the weather before a storm hits. But if you're unavoidably caught in a snowstorm, be prepared. Proper snow tires and/or chains will help you maneuver through snow and ice. Keep emergency winter clothes and supplies in your vehicle to buy you time and protection.

Think you’re ready already?