Of the 5,891,000 car crashes that happen each year, 1,235,000 of them are weather-related.
Whether you’re a veteran road warrior or new to the area and its unpredictable weather, it can’t hurt to recap best driving practices. Here are some tips to keep you safe on the roads this winter.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Tire selection. Use a good winter tire that is properly inflated. A winter tire has a compound specifically designed to grip the road. They also have a narrower tread pattern, which leads to increased traction.
Mind your gas tank. Keep your gas no lower than half full. This will help to avoid any potential gas line freeze-ups. Additionally, if you’re headed on a longer drive, make sure to leave with a full tank of gas in case you run into any unforeseen road delays.
Keep up on car maintenance. Properly maintaining your vehicle will reduce your risk of having a breakdown that could strand you in the cold.
Pack extra clothes and more. In the event of a roadside emergency, you’ll want to make sure you have an extra layer of protection. Consider purchasing a quality pair of long johns or other clothes made specifically for low temperature insulation. The National Safety Council also recommends carrying these items.
Driving Considerations
Take a winter driving course. If you’re new to the area or new to driving, consider a driving school that focuses on the nuances of winter road management.
Use your seatbelt. One of the easiest ways to avoid becoming a fatality statistic is by buckling up.
Cruise Control. Do not use cruise control on any slippery surface, this includes wet or icy pavement.
Watch your speed. Always drive below the posted speed limit when driving on snow and ice.
Drive smoothly. Operate your acceleration and brake pedals as smoothly as possible. A sudden step on the gas or sudden braking can lead to loss of control.
Don’t drive impaired. Never get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Driving while impaired is a crime, and if you’re convicted you’ll be in for some major life changes, aside from the embarrassment.
- You could lose your job.
- A drunk driving conviction could prevent you from obtaining future employment.
- You’ll pay much higher insurance rates.
- You could face jail time.
Increase your following distance. The general rule for a safe driving distance is 3 to 5 seconds, meaning once a car passes an object in front of you, it should take about that time to reach the same object. When the weather is bad, increase your travel distance to a minimum of 6 seconds.
Recovering from a skid or slide. When you start to skid, follow these simple steps:
- Let off the gas and coast.
- Do not slam on the brakes.
- Start counter-steering. This means turning your wheel in the same direction the back end of your car is skidding toward. This should allow your vehicle to straighten back out.
- Keep your eyes where you want to go, this will allow your hands to follow so you’re pointing in the right direction.
Road Conditions
Before traveling any major distance, always check current road conditions.
The beauty of the snow comes with the reality of harsher road conditions. And whether you’re new to the area or an experienced road warrior, winter’s challenges can be difficult. By using these tips and committing your full attention to the road, you’ll be ensuring you arrive at your destination safely.
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