Winter Emergency Check List

Posted November 14, 2017 by Matthew

Winter Emergency Check ListWell, here we go again. It is November and another Minnesota winter is right around the corner. This is wonderful news for those who love colder temperatures, snow, and outdoor winter activities. Minnesota certainly provides plenty of opportunity to enjoy the winter, from ice fishing and ice skating, to snowboarding and snowmobiling.

This time of the year also marks the beginning of the holiday season, when family and friends travel, so they can celebrate and be together. While the winter holidays are cause for celebration, they can also be cause for concern when traveling. Increased travel during the winter means an increase in possible road side emergencies. Being prepared for just about anything is your best defense for survival.

At American Auto Body, we big believers in safety first. If winter weather is severe, it is always best to wait it out until road conditions improve. If travel is required, we suggest being as prepared as possible.

Below are a few suggestions to have in your car or trunk when traveling. If you drive long distances to work every day, it is recommended to keep these emergency car kit items with you each time you leave the house. Keeping these items together in a designated area of your car is also recommended for quickly locating in an emergency.

Winter Emergency Check List

  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight and/or headlamp
  • Emergency flares, reflective markers, and reflective vest
  • Jumper cables
  • Shovel
  • Vehicle fire extinguisher
  • Battery operated radio
  • Blanket and sleeping bag
  • Extra clothing (snow pants, coats, hats, gloves, and boots)
  • Matches, candles
  • Towels
  • Food and water (packaged items such as granola bars or energy bars)
  • Toilet paper
  • Phone charger with car adapter
  • Salt, sand, or kitty litter

If your vehicle has been damaged in an accident or collision, give us a call at American Auto Body. Our team of professionals will take care of you and your vehicle, from start to finish. Call us today at 763-424-2522 or submit an online estimate with our online app.

Winter Driving Tips

Posted January 17, 2017 by Matthew

 

Here we are again, right in the middle of another Minnesota winter and knee deep in snow. While we had a mild fall, it appears winter is in full swing. The elements of winter, such as snow, wet weather, freezing temps, and blowing winds can make for unsafe driving conditions. As auto body repair specialists, the subject of winter driving is very important to us. As much as we love your business, we would much rather you drive carefully and stay safe.

Life is busy. We get it. So, if you must be out on the road when bad weather strikes, we have put together a list of tips to stay safe while driving.

Winter Driving Tips from American Auto BodyHere are a few winter driving tips to keep in mind this winter:

Trust no one – Well, not really, you can trust others. What we mean to say is always be aware of your surroundings. While you may be a skilled winter driver, that is not always the case for everyone on the road. From young drivers to new drivers to bad drivers, always be aware of what other drivers on the road are doing.

Tap the brakes – We know this one is easier said than done, but when you catch yourself sliding on the road, try not to slam on the brakes. In the heat of the moment, slamming on your brakes is a natural response. Try to train your brain to tap the brakes, until you can gain back control of your vehicle.

Take Your Time – When winter weather hits and road conditions are less than favorable, take your time. We don’t mean slow it down to the point that you make the road dangerous for yourself or others, but just slow it down a bit. Taking it a bit slower will help you can stay in control of your vehicle.

Look Both Ways – Whether you have the greenlight or it’s your turn to go at a stop sign, pause for a moment. Before proceeding, look ways to confirm that the road is clear and an out of control driver isn’t sliding through the intersection.

Stay Home – We know this isn’t always possible, but when winter weather hits and the roads are bad, just stay home. Safety first. Always.

If you do find yourself in a car accident, give us a call at 763-424-2522. We will help you. We offer free pick-up & delivery service and free loaner cars, while your vehicle is being repaired.

Contact American Auto Body

8208 Lakeland Avenue North, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445

Open 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Extended hours also available by appointment.