Winter Roadside Assistance Tips

Mr.Quickpick RSA
Jul 18
2 min read

Winter Roadside Assistance Tips

Winter weather can turn a simple roadside issue into a dangerous emergency. From dead batteries to icy roads, cold temperatures add a whole new set of challenges for drivers — and for roadside assistance professionals.

Here are essential winter roadside assistance tips to keep you and your customers safe, prepared, and on the move when the snow starts falling:

1. 🔋 Check the Battery Before It Fails

Cold weather drains battery power faster. A weak battery in the summer might leave you stranded in the winter.

Tips:

Have your battery tested before winter hits.
If the vehicle cranks slowly or struggles to start, replace it immediately.
Keep jumper cables or a jump pack in your vehicle — or call for a mobile jump-start service when needed.

2. 🚗 Keep a Winter Emergency Kit

Being stranded in freezing temperatures without supplies can be dangerous.

Pack these items:

Blanket or thermal sleeping bag
Ice scraper and small shovel
Flashlight with extra batteries
Hand warmers
Non-perishable snacks and water
Portable phone charger
Reflective triangles or flares

Bonus Tip: Add sand or kitty litter for traction if you’re stuck in snow.

3. ❄️ Drive with Cold-Weather Awareness

Many winter roadside emergencies can be avoided with defensive driving.

Reminders:

Slow down in snow, ice, or rain.
Keep at least 3x the normal distance between cars.
Avoid cruise control on icy roads.
Brake gently and early.

4. 🛻 Know When to Call for Help

Sometimes it’s safer to wait for professional help than to try fixing a problem yourself in freezing weather.

Call a roadside professional if:

You have a flat tire and it’s dangerously cold or dark
You’re stuck in snow or off-road
Your battery is completely dead
You run out of fuel far from a gas station
You’re locked out in sub-freezing temps

5. 📍 Stay With Your Vehicle If You're Stranded

If you break down in winter conditions:

Stay inside your vehicle unless it’s unsafe.
Run the engine occasionally for heat — but crack a window and check the exhaust pipe for blockages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Keep your phone charged and call for assistance immediately.