Winter Weather Driving Tips

Driving in the winter can be tricky. Ice, snow, sleet and rain can create dangerous conditions. All drivers should slow down, but there are other safety rules for winter weather driving and dealing with winter road emergencies. From AAA, here are some tips to keep you safe behind the wheel this winter season.

Snowy Weather Driving Tips:

• Stay home. If you can, just don’t drive when the weather is nasty. It’s better to avoid taking unnecessary risks than venturing out.

• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Tap the gas slowly and break slowly to avoid skids and slips. If you can, don’t come to a full stop.                Instead, slow down enough to keep rolling until the light changes.

        • On hills, power up and don’t stop. Get some movement going on a flat roadway before you start your ascent up an icy hill. This will                 help carry you to the top. Once you reach the crest, reduce your speed and slowly proceed downhill.

• Stay connected. Before hitting the road, let others know your route and destination. Also, make sure you have a fully charged cell                       phone to use in the event of an emergency.

If something happens and you do end up stuck in the snow, here are some safety tips and precautions to help keep you safe.

• Stay with your vehicle. Your car is a temporary shelter and rescuers can find you easier. Do not try walking for help in severe winter                weather. You can easily lose sight of your car in blowing and drifting snow.

• Be visible. Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna to signal for help. At night, keep your dome light on, if possible. It only uses a                 small amount of electricity and rescuers will be able to spot you better.

• Clear the exhaust pipe. A blocked exhaust pipe filled with snow, ice or mud can cause carbon monoxide gas to leak into your car.                       Make sure it’s clear when running your engine.
        • Stay warm. Use everything in your car to stay warm – including floor mats, newspapers or maps. It’s best to always have a blanket                     and coat in your car during the winter.

Even careful drivers may encounter problems during the winter. Remember to slow down, give extra room to cars around you and avoid using your cruise control when the roads are wet or icy. If you do start to skid, the AAA recommends you stay calm, look and steer in the direction in which you want the car to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.

For more tips, visit the AAA website here. Have a safe winter driving season!

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