Asheville, North Carolina, is a place that experiences all four seasons. Throughout the season, spring delivers beautifully colored wildflowers and a plethora of blossoming trees. Warm temperatures accompany summer, and the ridges become lush and emerald.
Autumn, with its moderate temperatures and beautiful displays of color, is considered by many to be the best season. Even winter brings its share of majesty to Buncombe County, with brilliant displays of light and the potential to see snow.
Winter can be a challenging time to navigate the roads and highways in western North Carolina. It can also be a difficult season in which to take care of your vehicle. First Aid Collision is here to help you take steps to protect yourself and your car during the cold months in western North Carolina.
How to Navigate the Dangers of Winter to Protect Your Vehicle Asheville, NC
Here are a few quick tips for protecting your vehicle during the cold months in western North Carolina.
Stay Weather-Aware
It's critical to know what to expect from one part of our area to the next if you're driving around western North Carolina in the winter. Changes in elevation can make a dramatic difference in temperatures and precipitation types in Buncombe County.
Before you get on the road, check with local news and meteorologists on social media, review the National Weather Service's forecast details, and check the radar. You may realize that it is simply preferable to stay at home on days when winter weather is imminent.
Know Area Trouble Spots
There are certain roads and intersections in Asheville that are trouble spots in the best conditions but can be treacherous in snow and ice:
- I-26 near Biltmore Square
- I-240 near the Patton Ave exit
- Weaverville and Mars Hill
- Sam’s Gap on I-26
- The Blue Ridge Parkway
Avoid Driving at High Traffic Times
If the weather is poor, rush hour traffic is going to be exasperated. This raises the chances of being involved in a fender-bender or significant accident. You could also become stuck in traffic for hours and risk running out of gas.
If possible, avoid driving during the busiest times of the day in winter.
Keep an Emergency Kit
Unfortunately, you may not be able to avoid traffic or driving during winter weather. If you get caught in traffic, face mechanical issues, or find yourself stuck in the snow, it could be hours before you get moving again.
Make sure you have a flashlight, blanket, jacket, non-perishable food, road flares, kitty litter (for deicing), and other essentials in your vehicle.
Beware of the Car Wash
‘Tis the season to wash your car often. From muddy dirt roads to salt and brine from winter weather highway treatments, our vehicles can get downright grimy during winter.
You do need to wash your vehicle, especially if there is any build-up of ice melt on the paint or undercarriage; otherwise, you could be dealing with rust.
However, there are some dangers when it comes to car washes:
- The type of soap or cloth used can harm the paint on your vehicle.
- While waxing, many drivers inadvertently cause damage to their vehicles.
- Car washes, both touchless and non-touchless, can sometimes cause significant damage.
- Even minor dents and dings can lead to the development of rust.
Winter Vehicle Damage Repair - First Aid Collision in Buncombe County
If you have winter-related vehicle damage such as dents and dings, fender-bender bumper damage, or car wash-related scratches, the team at First Aid Collision is here to help. Bring your car by the shop or contact us for more information about repairing your car’s exterior.