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Winter Travel Made Easy: Grange Insurance Offers Tips on Safe Winter Driving


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COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 13, 2007 -- Despite the cold and snow, the winter season shouldn't keep drivers from traveling to visit family and friends or their favorite vacation spot. Through careful planning and a little extra time, travelers can safely reach their destinations.

According to Peter McMurtrie, chief claims officer for Grange Insurance, "Preparation is the key to winter driving. There are a few, easy precautions drivers can take to keep their family and themselves safe when trekking out during the wintry months."

Preparation

Before the seasons change, it's important to get regular maintenance on your vehicle to ensure it's ready for the winter. Drivers should also consider installing winter tires, or all-weather tires, and winter windshield wipers. McMurtrie also advises keeping your gas tank at least half full to prevent gas-lines from freezing.

Weather can change quickly, so having a properly equipped car kit could come in handy. A basic kit should include:

  -- Windshield scraper and small broom for snow and ice removal
  -- Sand or kitty litter to regain traction on slippery surfaces
  -- Blankets
  -- First aid kit
  -- Flashlights
  -- Non-perishable food and water
  -- Jumper cables
  -- De-icer
  -- Extra batteries

  Heading out

During inclement weather, keep from driving if you can. However if driving is necessary or unavoidable, pay close attention to weather and traffic reports and allow for plenty of travel time. Also know that the roads may be drivable when you first head out, but may be unsafe by the time you want to drive home.

"A lot of problems come when drivers are in a hurry and aren't mindful of the conditions," adds McMurtrie. "Remember to slow down and stay calm so you can reach your destination safely."

During bad weather, police may only be able to respond to major accidents as opposed to fender benders. If this is the case, McMurtrie suggests moving the cars to the side of the road, taking pictures of the damage if a camera is available, and exchanging information. Afterwards, make sure to report any loss to your insurance carrier as soon as possible.

Taking the necessary measures beforehand will keep you safe this winter season and allow you to focus on enjoying time with friends and family.

Grange Mutual Casualty Group, based in Columbus, Ohio, is a $1 billion insurance provider. Through its network of independent agents, Grange offers auto, home, life, business and farm insurance protection through Grange Insurance and Integrity Insurance. The company serves policyholders in Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin. For more information, visit www.grangeinsurance.com.