Body shop professionals see it every winter. The snow and ice often trick the inexperienced drivers into collisions. Even more experienced drivers get surprised from time to time, from black ice or unexpected melts that freeze or other drivers that hit them.

As Madison’s premier spot auto body repair shop, we want to help Madison WI drivers avoid as many dents, dings and collisions as possible. However, when those minor collisions do occur and you need a body shop, we are prepared to be your body shop of record, providing the best repair options for your situation.

Getting ready for risk-free wintertime driving starts before you even get into your car. You need to remove all snow and ice your car’s windows, mirrors, roof, front lights, tail lights, hood and trunk before getting into your car and driving. This will help aid your ability to see the road, cars, etc. better.

Driving in winter weather conditions can result in unexpected periods of time where you are stuck in traffic, or worse, you may find yourself stranded. Emergency vehicles have delayed arrival times and oftentimes it may be hours before you can get help. The reality is you never know when or where you will be stranded if your vehicle breaks down, has a flat tire or other problem. Be sure you have the following just in case you get stuck on a cold day and need help –

• Always have a FULLY CHARGED cell phone
• Blankets
• Gloves
• Hats
• Food
• Water
• Jumper Cables
• Rope
• Flashlight
• Bag of Sand
• Emergency Flares
• Medication you need if you are stranded longer than expected

Winter Driving Tips To Help Avoid The Body Shop

Being prepared is the best thing you can do to protect yourself and your car from a trip to the body shop. Remember and use the following ideas to stay as safe as possible.

• Weather Reports – before driving, check the weather reports to know the expected weather conditions.
• Traffic Reports – check with local or State police to see what roads are like – are they clear, snow covered and slippery or considered hazardous.
  • Check this Wisconsin State Patrol map if you intend on traveling outside of Madison.
  • Check here for Madison Road Conditions
• In winter driving conditions, always accelerate and decelerate slowly. Accelerating slowly is the best technique for gaining traction and avoiding skids.
• Slowing down takes longer on icy roads. Brake sooner and slowly (or gently) when approaching an intersection or stop light.
• Drive slowly as a general rule.  On snow-covered road, accelerating, stopping and turning takes longer.  To avoid a trip to the body shop, drive slowly.
• Be sure you know your brakes. Keeping the heel on the floor and using the ball of your foot to apply steady pressure on the brake pedal is the safest way to brake. Use this technique whether you have anti-lock brakes or not.
• Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

Check your vehicle regularly to be sure it is in peak operating condition. This includes –

• Tire pressure
• Wiper blades
• Windshield wiper fluid
• Battery and charging system
• Cooling system
• Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times – top it off often
• Always get your car serviced prior to the winter driving season.

If Your Vehicle Does Breakdown

The safest thing to do is to stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Your vehicle shields you from elements and makes it easier for rescuers/service people to locate you. Do not attempt to walk any distance in a storm –  once you walk away from your vehicle in a snow storm it is too easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become disoriented and lost.

Avoiding a Trip To The Body Shop In Madison WI

Winter weather conditions can change quickly and create hazardous road conditions for motorists. So, while you may feel confident in your car and your abilities, not all drivers do. To help others on the road –

• Always leave enough room between you and surrounding cars.
• Give yourself additional time to stop as roads may be slick.
• Don’t pass other cars unless you have to.
• Plan for extra no matter what your destination is – traffic may be heavier than usual due to slow moving traffic because of weather or an accident.

Auto Color is THE Auto Body Shop Alternative In Madison WI

If you find yourself having to choose an auto body shop for a winter driving induced body repair, Auto Color is likely your best choice in Madison WI. Our spot repair professionals make sure you know all of the body repair options available to you.

Visit either of our two locations in the Madison WI area – on Parmenter Road in Middleton or our Stoughton Road location. These convenient body shop locations help us serve surrounding cities including Verona, Waunakee, Fitchburg, Sauk City, McFarland, Middleton, Monona, Cottage Grove, Sun Prairie and Deforest and all of Dane County.

Call Auto Color Middleton at 608-831-9554 or Auto Color East Madison at 608-221-5041 or email us for help with body repair help or auto body shop selection in Madison WI.