Is Your Car Ready for the Changing Seasons?
What does your car’s windshield look like in the morning before you leave your house?
With the arrival of fall, many windshields are covered in moisture each day and will soon be covered in ice as temperatures began to drop during the fall and winter seasons. (image 1)
Whether you are leaving for work or just trying to get your kids to school on time, driving with a windshield that is anything but clear is dangerous and a violation of the law. (image 2)
Each year, law enforcement officers investigate early morning car accidents that are caused by driver’s who couldn’t see where they were going. Operating your car in this condition may result in an officer issuing you a citation, but more importantly, could easily be the cause of an accident that ends in tragedy.
“We would like to remind everyone to plan a few extra minutes each morning before you drive away from your house to increase your visibility by defrosting or cleaning your windshield so that you can clearly see through it,” said Lt. Robert McManus. “This includes your side and rear windows too. Those few extra minutes may make the difference in whether or not you arrive safely at your final destination,” he said.
However, police warn not to leave your car running while unattended, as this creates a perfect opportunity for a thief to steal it. Be prepared. Plan ahead. A quick trip back into the house to get something you forgot while your car is “warming up” could end with returning to a car that has just been stolen.
Additionally, this is the perfect time to prepare your car for the winter weather and nighttime driving. Inspect your windshield wiper blades and check all of the lights on your car. Ask a friend, family member or neighbor to assist you, and check the operation of your headlights, turn signals and brake lights. Replace worn wiper blades and bulbs that aren’t functioning properly.
As a reminder, and especially on wet, rainy days, police recommend that you increase the distance between you and the car in front of you, as roads can be slick and may take longer for you to stop. Even in the daytime, turn your headlights on when your windshield wipers are in use. Lastly, refrain from anything that may distract you while you’re driving, such as using a cell phone, reading the newspaper, or paying attention to something other than what’s in front of you.
The San Leandro Police Department wants you to reach your destination safely. Always wearing your seatbelt and following these safety tips will increase your chances of doing so.
MEDIA UPDATES WILL BE MADE AS INFORMATION BECOMES AVAILABLE
Please contact the San Leandro Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division with any information regarding this case or any other case at (510) 577-3230.
Information may also be submitted anonymously by:
• Phone: Anonymous Crime Tips at (510) 577-3278
• Text Message: Text “TipSLPolice” to 888777
For crime prevention tips, please visit the Police Department’s website at http://www.sanleandro.org/depts/pd or contact our Crime Prevention Unit at 510-577-3228.
Citizens play a critical role in creating a safe environment by observing and reporting any suspicious or criminal activity to the police. The San Leandro Police Department recommends that citizens do not participate in any direct verbal or physical involvement with suspicious persons or those engaged in the commission of crimes. Personal safety of our community is paramount. We encourage the San Leandro community to record the details of what they observe and to report those details to the police. This type of community involvement and partnership has proven to be a very effective crime prevention tool. Citizens act as the eyes and ears of the community first, and the extended eyes and ears of the San Leandro Police Department. Thank you for being a force-multiplier in our efforts to provide professional police services and safety to the community.
PRESS RELEASE INFORMATION:
DATE / TIME OF RELEASE: 11/07/16 – 12:45pm
INCIDENTS: Winter Driving Tips
PRESS RELEASE OFFICER: Lt. Robert McManus
TELEPHONE: (510) 577-3232
EMAIL: [email protected]
Address/Location
San Leandro Police Department
901 E 14th St
San Leandro, CA 94577
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 510-577-2740
TEXT-A-TIP - Text TIP SLPOLICE followed by your message, to 888777