Planning a winter road trip across Ohio can be both exciting and daunting. Snow-covered landscapes, cozy destinations, and family gatherings are wonderful, but icy roads and unpredictable weather can make travel risky. With a little preparation, though, you can stay safe and enjoy the journey.

At D&S Automotive, we understand the challenges of winter driving, especially when things don’t go as planned. Whether you need collision repair after a winter mishap or guidance on navigating insurance claims, we’re here to help. Here’s how you can prepare for a winter road trip while staying safe on Ohio’s unpredictable roads.

Know Your Vehicle Is Ready

Before heading out, it’s important to make sure your vehicle can handle the road conditions. Start with the basics. Check that your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread. In Ohio winters, tires make all the difference—bald or underinflated tires reduce traction on icy or snowy surfaces.

Don’t forget to top off your windshield washer fluid with one that won’t freeze and ensure your wipers are in good shape. Being able to see clearly during a snowstorm or when salt spray covers your windshield is critical.

Also, check that your headlights, taillights, and brake lights are clean and functioning. Ohio’s short daylight hours and frequent snow mean you’ll rely on them more than usual.

Finally, if you’ve been hearing strange noises or noticing minor issues with your car, don’t ignore them. Something small could turn into a big problem when you’re far from home, especially in bad weather. While D&S Automotive doesn’t handle pre-trip inspections, addressing potential problems before you hit the road is always a smart move.

Pack for Safety and Comfort

Winter road trips can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack for the unexpected. Start with an emergency kit. Make sure it includes essentials like a blanket, gloves, hats, and a flashlight with extra batteries. It’s also a good idea to pack some non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and a portable phone charger. If you end up stuck in traffic or waiting for help, these items can make the wait much easier.

For your car, include an ice scraper, a snow brush, and a small shovel in your trunk. Sand or kitty litter can help if your tires lose traction. And don’t forget to check that your spare tire and tools are in the trunk—they won’t help if they’re not there or if the spare is flat.

Plan Your Route Carefully

Even if you know your destination well, planning your route with winter conditions in mind is crucial. Stick to main highways and interstates whenever possible, as they’re more likely to be plowed and salted. Avoid shortcuts on backroads that might be icy or less maintained. It’s also wise to check the weather for your entire route before you leave.

If a major snowstorm or icy conditions are forecast, consider delaying your trip or taking a safer route. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you track traffic, closures, and weather-related delays in real time.

Adjust Your Driving Habits

Winter roads call for cautious driving. Slow down, even if the speed limit says otherwise. Snow and ice reduce traction, and speeding makes it harder to stop in an emergency. Increase the distance between your car and the one in front of you—this gives you more time to react if they suddenly brake.

If you hit a patch of ice, resist the urge to slam on your brakes. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go. Sudden movements can cause your car to spin out. Also, avoid using cruise control on slippery roads. You need full control over your vehicle, and cruise control can make it harder to react to changing conditions.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

Even with the best preparation, accidents and breakdowns can happen. If you’re involved in a collision, stay calm. Move your car to the side of the road if possible, and turn on your hazard lights. Make sure everyone is safe, and call for help if needed. Document the accident by taking photos of the damage, the road conditions, and any other vehicles involved.

Exchange information with other drivers and contact your insurance provider to start the claims process. At D&S Automotive, we know how stressful accidents can be, especially in winter. If you need collision repair, our teams in Mentor, Chardon, East Mentor, Elyria, and Kirtland are ready to help. We specialize in repairing winter-related damage and work directly with insurance companies like Progressive, Nationwide, and State Farm to make the process as smooth as possible.

Stay Prepared for Ohio’s Winter Roads

Winter road trips can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy the journey without unnecessary stress. Take care of your car, pack wisely, and drive cautiously. And if the unexpected happens, know that D&S Automotive is here to get you back on the road quickly and safely. If you’ve had a winter mishap and need repairs, contact one of our locations today for a free estimate:

• Mentor Body Shop: (440) 946-2178
• Chardon Body Shop: (440) 279-4615
• East Mentor Body Shop: (440) 255-5400
• Elyria Body Shop: (440) 366-5696
• Kirtland Body Shop: (440) 367-8135

Stay safe, and enjoy your winter road trip across Ohio!