Thursday, February 21, 2013

Winter Driving Tips

Winter Driving Tips

How to Drive Safely in Winter Conditions


View out windshield of snow covered road and low visibility at stoplight
Winter Driving Conditions: City
Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher


The 24 hour forecast:  9 inches of snow with gusting winds...
The drive to work tomorrow: not fun...

Here are some winter driving tips to stay safe and get where you are going:

Tip 1: Don't drive if conditions are too dangerous

It's your car and your neck that will be at risk if you drive.  If it seems too dangerous to drive, then consider waiting to drive until conditions improve.  If you can delay driving for a few hours, this will give snow plows a chance to clear the roads and spread salt and sand.  How would you rather spend a couple hours- watching TV and drinking coffee at home, or stuck along the road waiting for a tow truck?

Tip 2: Drive while it is light outside

If it is before sunrise, wait until the sun is up- this will improve your ability to stay on the road if visibility is limited.  If sunset is approaching, consider driving and getting to your destination before it gets dark.

Tip 3: Drive Slowly

Road conditions may be more slippery than you realize... until it's too late.

View out windshield of 100% snow covered road on rural highway
Winter Driving Conditions: Highway
Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher


Tip 4: Easy on the brakes

Hitting the brakes suddenly can cause your vehicle to go out of control, even on a straight road.  Leave plenty of room between you and the car ahead so you can avoid sudden braking.

Tip 5: Forget full and complete stops

If you are driving on snow covered or really slippery roads, you may not want to stop completely at stop signs unless there is traffic.  You can reduce your chances of getting stuck if you slowly and carefully roll through stop signs.  Of course this is safe only if you can see that the intersection is clear of traffic.

Tip 6: Fill up before the storm hits

You are better off with a full tank of gas when driving in winter weather.  If you do get stuck, you can run your engine to stay warm until help arrives.  Also a full tank of gas will reduce the chances of fuel line freezing from condensation in the gas tank.

Tip 7: Put a coat and boots in the trunk

Prepare for the worst- let's say you slide into the ditch and need to walk a couple miles through a blizzard.  Having a coat and boots on board will make this situation a lot more manageable.

Tip 8: Clear your windshield, headlights, and brake lights before starting out

This will give you the best chance of arriving safely


View out side window of snow covered interstate highway on-ramp
Winter Driving Conditions: Interstate
Image Source: Dr. Penny Pincher


Tip 9: Even 4x4 vehicles are dangerous in slippery conditions

Vehicles like four wheel drive SUVs and pickup trucks have a high center of gravity and can roll over easily if they slide off the road.  Be especially careful in slippery conditions if you are driving such a vehicle.

Tip 10: Make sure you have your cell phone- and make sure it is charged up

If you do have an accident, having a cell phone available will help you deal with the situation




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