While some of the wintery weather that was forecasted showed up in our area, more winter is still coming, and the Triple-A reminds motorists to be prepared for it.
Drivers are reminded to allow extra time to get to their destinations, monitor weather conditions and follow advice from authorities.
When taking to the road during winter weather, remember to drive with caution to help maintain your safety as well as that of passengers, fellow motorists and roadside workers. AAA recommends the following tips for winter driving:
- Before starting out in snowy weather, take time to remove the snow from the entire car so it doesn’t blow onto your windshield or the windshields of other drivers. Make sure your mirrors and lights are clean.
- Go slow in snow. Posted speeds are for ideal conditions.
- Watch for icy surfaces on bridges and intersections, even when the rest of the road seems to be in good condition.
- Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra seconds to react.
- When changing lanes, avoid cutting in front of trucks, which need more time and distance than passenger vehicles to stop.
- Don’t use cruise control when roads are wet, snowy or icy.
- Remember that four-wheel drive helps you to get going quicker, but it won’t help you stop any faster.
- In the event of a skid, ease off the accelerator and don’t lock the brakes. Carefully steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction.
Emergency supplies are always a good move, such as a cell phone, boots, gloves, a blanket, a shovel and a first-aid kit.
