Almost all drivers know they have to look twice when they get behind the wheel in the middle of winter. Freezing temperatures, poor visibility, slippery roads and other factors can severely inhibit the safety of all motorists on the roads, and being a defensive driver is a solid first step toward avoiding a problem. However, too often there are breakdowns or collisions that are seemingly unavoidable – largely due to black ice or the actions of others on the roads. 

If you find yourself in one of these situations, you can keep a few things in mind to make it easier to handle the aftermath. For one, make sure you take pictures or even a video of the scene. If damage has been done to your car or other property, having evidence of the harm is key. At the same time, you shouldn't abstain from immediately calling your insurance provider and, if necessary, filing a police report. Timeliness can play an important role when making an insurance claim, so you're going to want to handle the situation as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

No matter what, you should remember that safety is your top priority. Don't get out of a vehicle and wander around if there is poor visibility or you could be at risk for another accident. Keeping flashlights and reflective signs or tape in a car may be helpful, as you can alert others as to your location in a safe manner. 

Of course, you should always be taking steps to avoid a breakdown or accident altogether. Preventative measures such as auto tune ups can go a long way toward bypassing problems, but unfortunately, these steps can only take you so far. If you find yourself in need of a check-in or a consult, consider reading out to the Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The garage can provide insight as well as basic repairs.