Walking On Volume 2, Issue 2, February 2015 | Page 14

Back to Basics

USRider: Winter Driving Tips
for Horse Owners
 USRider reminds everyone who travels with horses to be
careful, and to invest time performing routine preventative
trailer maintenance to enhance overall travel safety.
While it is imperative to maintain your vehicle according to
the manufacturer’s service schedule, it is also important to take
your vehicle to a trusted mechanic. This is especially crucial
for heavy-duty vehicles towing precious cargo. It is better to be
proactive rather than reactive.
USRider recommends that you check tire pressure before
each trip. This is especially essential with temperature changes.
If you are traveling from a warm climate to a cold climate, air
pressure in your tires will drop. On the other hand, when traveling from a cold climate to a warm climate, the air pressure
will rise.

©DIGBY FIRE DEPARTMENT

During winter months, traction tires are recommended.
In order to qualify as a traction tire, tires must have at least
an eighth-inch tread and be labeled Mud and Snow, M+S,
All-Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol. Since tire
performance can vary, a trusted area dealer may be able to
advise you on the best tires for your vehicle and your area of
the country. Plus, look at the date on the inside of the tire to be
sure it has not been on the dealer shelf too long.
Another travel issue that could raise its ugly head during
cold weather is a weak battery. If you have a battery that is
more than a couple years old, be sure to check it prior to cold
weather setting in. Otherwise, you may find yourself on a cold

14 • Walking On

morning inconvenienced with a dead battery.
When driving, a good rule of thumb to follow on the road
is “Rain, ice & snow – take it slow.” Before setting out