When Winter Weather Hits, Preparation Matters
Even in Southern California, winter can cause unexpected driving challenges—fog, heavy rain, and icy mountain passes can quickly turn a short trip into a dangerous situation. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that nearly 5,000 people die and over 418,000 are injured each year in weather-related crashes. The good news? With a little preparation, you can greatly reduce your risk of needing a tow.
At Foglesong Towing, we’ve seen firsthand how simple maintenance and awareness can prevent breakdowns and accidents during the colder months. Whether you’re driving through Ontario, heading toward the San Bernardino Mountains, or traveling across the Inland Empire, here’s how to stay safe and avoid a tow this winter.
1. Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready
Before temperatures drop or rain hits, check your vehicle’s key systems:
- Battery health: Heat damage from summer months weakens batteries. Have yours tested, especially if it’s over three years old. A weak battery is one of the most common causes of winter tows.
- Tires: Make sure tires are properly inflated and have at least 4/32” tread depth to prevent hydroplaning. Carry chains if traveling into mountain regions, Caltrans and CHP require them between November and April.
- Brakes and fluids: Replace worn brake pads, check your brake fluid, oil, and antifreeze levels, and top off with winter-grade windshield washer fluid.
2. Check the Weather Before You Go
Weather in the Inland Empire can change fast, rain on I-10 can turn to snow in the Cajon Pass within an hour. Always check:
- Caltrans QuickMap for real-time traffic and chain control updates.
- Local news or CHP Traffic Incident Reports before heading into mountain routes.
If conditions look dangerous, delay non-essential travel. Leaving early or waiting until roads are cleared is often the best way to stay safe, and avoid needing a tow.
3. Slow Down and Leave Space
Driving too fast for conditions is one of the biggest causes of winter accidents. Wet or icy roads require longer stopping distances.
- Double your normal following distance, at least five to six seconds between vehicles.
- Avoid cruise control in rain, fog, or icy conditions.
- Brake gently to avoid skids; if you hydroplane, ease off the gas and steer gently in the direction you want to go.
Even experienced drivers can lose control when roads are slick. Slowing down is the single most effective way to stay out of trouble.
4. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
A well-stocked emergency kit can turn a roadside delay into a safe wait instead of a crisis.
Here’s what every Southern California driver should carry:
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
- Jumper cables or jump pack
- Ice scraper or small shovel (especially for mountain travel)
- Cat litter or sand for traction
- Cell phone car charger
- Rain gear and gloves
If you travel into higher elevations, add tire chains, extra clothing, and a reflective triangle or flare to signal distress.Pro Tip: Store your kit in an easy-to-reach bag. Check it twice a year, replace expired items and make sure your flashlight and charger still work.
5. Know What to Do if You’re Stranded
If your car breaks down or you become stuck:
- Stay with your vehicle, it provides shelter and makes it easier for rescuers or tow providers to find you.
- Call for help right away. In urban areas or on major highways, the Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) may assist free of charge during peak hours.
- Keep your exhaust pipe clear of snow or mud to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- Run the engine for 10 minutes each hour to stay warm, opening a window slightly for ventilation.
If stranded in the mountains, signal distress by tying a bright cloth to your antenna or raising your hood once snow stops falling.
6. Avoid Common Tow Situations
Winter breakdowns often come down to preventable issues. You can avoid a tow by:
Testing your battery after summer heat damage.
- Replacing worn tires before rainy season.
- Carrying chains and knowing how to install them properly.
- Keeping your gas tank at least half full to avoid freezing and ensure you can run the heater if stranded.
- Avoiding sudden braking or acceleration on slick roads to prevent spinouts and collisions.
7. If You Need a Tow, Choose a Trusted Local Company
Unfortunately, not every tow is avoidable, but you can control who helps you.
If your car becomes disabled, avoid calling an unfamiliar tow service or accepting help from unverified operators. Always contact a licensed, insured company.
Foglesong Towing provides:
- 24/7 emergency towing across Ontario, the Inland Empire, and throughout Southern California
- Flatbed options for safe vehicle transport
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
When winter weather takes a turn, you can count on Foglesong Towing for safe, professional help when it matters most.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Stranded
Winter in Southern California might not bring heavy snow to every city, but fog, rain, and icy mountain roads still cause thousands of breakdowns and crashes each year. A little preparation, checking your battery, maintaining your tires, packing an emergency kit, can save you from costly tows and dangerous situations.
Stay alert, drive slow, and if you do find yourself in trouble, call Foglesong Towing for fast, reliable roadside help anywhere in the Inland Empire.