Current Article

Winter Driving Safety

Without careful preparation winter driving can quickly become a driver's worst nightmare. However, there are a few simple steps drivers can take to make their trips a little easier.

Before beginning the trip remove all the snow and ice from your car, including the windows, side mirrors, lights, hood and trunk. This will help you see other drivers and any other obstacles in your path. In late fall or early winter have a mechanic check your car, including the engine, battery, cooling system, windshield wipers and lights, to ensure everything is working properly. Drivers may also want to consider getting snow tires or all-weather tires to help with traction.

A survival kit should be assembled and kept in the car in case of a break-down or other road-side emergency. Items which should be included in the kit are an ice scraper and brush; a shovel, kitty litter, sand or traction mats; extra windshield washer fluid; a blanket or extra clothes; booster cables; flares; a flashlight and extra batteries; a cell phone; food and water; and a first aid kit.

Experts advise staying in the car if you become stranded during a snowstorm. In white-out or blizzard conditions, it is easy to quickly become disoriented and lost. In cold weather this could lead to a variety of potential health problems, including hyperthermia.

If you become stuck in snow or on ice this winter remember to keep the front tires straight and rock the car back and forth – driving slowly forward and backward without spinning the tires. After the tires begin to grip, put the car in neutral and drift forward as far as possible before applying the brakes and starting the process over again.

Here are a few other winter driving tips:

• To come out of a skid, steer in the direction you want the front end of the car to go.
  
• Slow down! Reducing your speed will help you keep control of the car and will enable you to stop the car without skidding. Also remember to slow down when approaching bridges and overpasses, as they typically freeze before the road surface.
  
• During snowy or icy conditions, allow extra space between your car and the car in front of you, and stay at least three to four car lengths away from snow plows.
  
• Keep your car’s gas tank at least 2/3 full so the fuel line doesn’t freeze.
  
• Use caution at intersections and slow down ahead of time. Be aware of other drivers who may not be able to stop at the intersection. After stopping, gently press on the gas pedal to get started again.
  
• Drive on unpacked snow for better traction when going up hills. Gradually build up your speed before getting to the bottom of the hill to reduce your chances of sliding.