WQIO Ohio's Super Station
Although the calendar is flipping to spring, the temperature says winter still has a grip on Ohio. And drivers had a challenging season as AAA’s Roadside Rescue Team came to the aid of more than 230,000 Ohio drivers this winter, with many calls related to dead batteries and flat tires.
Based on the types of calls received, a clear picture has emerged of a winter that included snowy roads and bitterly cold temperatures. Drivers found themselves stranded by dead batteries and flat tires.
- AAA received more than 62,000 calls for dead batteries.
- AAA assisted more than 27,000 drivers with flat tires.
- AAA assisted with more than 107,000 tows.
The majority of calls were for a tow, which could indicate any number of issues with a car – from a simple tow from a snowy ditch to a more serious engine problem. But whether it’s replacing a battery, pulling a vehicle out of a snowy ditch, or towing a car for repairs, AAA is focused on delivering member safety, security and peace of mind at the roadside.
Automotive Spring Cleaning and Car Care Tips
Ohio drivers faced several snow storms and road crews responded by applying deicers on area roadways. De-icing products are corrosive and it is important for motorists to remove all de-icing materials from their vehicles as quickly as possible. AAA offers these automotive spring cleaning tips for drivers:
- Remove de-icing materials from the undercarriage and body of your vehicle. Many drive-through carwashes offer undercarriage spray – proceed slowly through the carwash to ensure all de-icing debris is thoroughly washed away.
- Spray off wheel wells around tires.
- Open doors and wipe down all surfaces.
- Wash rubber car mats and sweep carpets to remove salt and de-icing residue tracked in on your shoes.
- Check windshield wipers. If windshield wipers were used on icy windows, they may have been damaged and should be replaced.
- Springtime ushers in the rainy season in Ohio and drivers need to check their tires to make sure they are properly inflated and to ensure they have the proper amount of tread. An easy way to check tire tread is to insert a quarter into the tread – if the tread is touching or partially covering Washington’s head, the tire has adequate tread.
- During the harsh conditions this winter some drivers parked vehicles and rode out winter storms at home. Batteries should be checked for vehicles that were not driven frequently. Drivers can get a free check-up for their vehicles at any AAA Tire and Auto Center. Vehicle inspections are free but appointments are recommended.
