SOBRIETY SEATBELTS SPEE

SAFE Winter Driving Tips

Want to know how to avoid being injured in a winter car crash?

The best way is by

NOT CRASHING!

With winter upon us, drivers face some new hazards. And for inexperienced drivers, these hazards are compounded. So here are some tips to help you avoid common winter-weather pitfalls.

Prepare your Vehicle

Read your Owner's Manual and winterize the following:

• battery and lights

• defroster and heater

• motor oil

• wiper blades and windshield washer fluid

• antifreeze

• belts, hoses and filters

• tire pressure

• brakes and brake fluid

It's a good idea to simply take your car into a shop and have it winterized. It may save you money in the long run by keeping your car running better. And it will certainly improve your odds on the slippery, snowy roads!

Other tips:

• Keep your gas tank full to minimize condensation, and provide an extra margin of comfort and safety in case of delays. The extra weight (a tank of gas weights 100-200+ pounds) helps a bit in snowy conditions, too.

• A cell phone — if used only for emergencies rather than distracting chitchat can be a lifesaver in the event of an emergency or collision.

• Stock your car with basic safety equipment such as emergency cash, scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow chain, and bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction.

• Carry a breakdown kit that includes road flares, blanket, gloves, boots, warm clothing, flashlight, extra batteries, food, water, and first-aid kit.

• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights — even the hood and roof — before driving.

On the Road

Winter road conditions require your extra attention. Staying off the phone, driving at a safe and legal speed, driving alert and sober and buckling up will ensure that you safely make it to your destination.

• Wear your seat belt.

• Drive with your headlights on.

• Slow Down! Give yourself extra time to reach your destination when roads are slick. If at all possible, do not drive when the roads are icy. Consider delaying your trip.

• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows — stay at least 15 car lengths (200 feet) back and don't pass on the right.

• Watch for icy surfaces on bridges, 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.

• Trucks take longer to stop, so don't cut in front of them.

• Don't use your cruise control or overdrive when it's freezing (or colder).

• Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It helps you get going quicker but won't help you stop any faster.

• Don't pump anti-lock brakes. The right way is to "stomp and steer."

Stay alert, slow down and stay in control — the three key elements to safe winter driving. Drive according to current road and weather conditions. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid situations where you may have to brake suddenly on a slippery surface.

Braking

Make sure you know how to use your braking system in all weather and road conditions. Antilock brakes work differently than older braking systems. Consider taking an advanced driving course that teaches emergency driving skills.

Snowy Roads

Snow on a road may be hard-packed and slippery as ice. It can also be rutted and full of hard tracks and gullies. Or it can be smooth and soft. Wet snow can make for slushy roads. Heavy slush can build up in the wheel wells of your vehicle and can affect your ability to steer. Remember, look far ahead as you drive, so you can recognize hazards and have plenty of time to respond. Adjust your driving to the road and weather conditions. Slow down and avoid sudden turns of the steering wheel, and sudden braking and accelerating which could cause a skid.

Ice

Be careful when approaching shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses, as these sections of road freeze much sooner in cold weather and stay frozen long after the sun has risen. Watch out for black ice, areas of the road that appear black and shiny, as they can cause your vehicle to suddenly lose traction. Slow down, keep your foot off the brake, and be ready to shift to neutral or step on the clutch as your vehicle crosses these areas.

Snow spray

On snow-covered highways, large trucks and buses can raise or blow snow onto your windshield leading to a sudden loss of visibility. Always drive defensively and leave enough space to avoid their snow spray.

Driving in blowing snow and whiteouts

• Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the conditions.

• Make sure the full lighting system of your vehicle is turned on.

• Be patient. Avoid passing, changing lanes and crossing traffic.

• Increase your following distance. You will need extra distance to brake safely.

• Stay alert. Keep looking as far ahead as possible.

• Reduce the distractions in your vehicle. Your full attention is required.

• Keep your windows and mirrors clean. Use defroster and wipers to maximize your vision.

• Try to get off the road when visibility is near zero. Pull into a safe parking area if possible.