Winter is quickly approaching and that means fewer hours of daylight. To be sure you can be seen by others and your visibility is not compromised, check your vehicle’s lights and wipers, says the non-profit Car Care Council.

The days are getting shorter, so it is a good time to check that your vehicle’s wipers and lighting are working properly; the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen. From the driver’s seat you may not notice a light that isn’t working, so it’s important to check all of your car’s lights and replace those that are out. Inspecting and replacing wiper blades so you can see clearly when wet weather hits is also crucial.

The wiper system keeps excessive water, snow and dirt from building up on the windshield, maintaining clear visibility. Many factors can accelerate the replacement interval of wipers, including operating conditions (winter conditions are tough on wiper blades), frequency of use, material and type of wipers and sunny weather. In fact, wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in desert states.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The lighting system provides nighttime visibility; signals and alerts other drivers; and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior. In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips can help keep you safe:

• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.
• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.
• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

For more information about keeping your vehicle in safe, dependable operating condition, visit the Car Care Council website at www.carcare.org.