Five Tips for Winter Weather Driving

February 08, 2017

According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 70% of the nation's roads are located in snowy regions and 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement.  Another 15% occur during snowfall or sleet.   With statistics like these and the potential for a few more months of winter weather, now is a great time to brush up on winter weather driving safety.

  1. Prep your vehicle for winter driving with these past tips: Prep Your Home & Auto Before Holiday Travel.
  2. Practice driving your vehicle under different conditions.  Get to know how your vehicle handles.
  3. Be aware of weather forecasts for your area, and plan accordingly.  Allow more time for travel, or don’t travel at all.
  4. Drive for the current conditions:

    • Wear your seat belt at all times.

    • Avoid using cruise control. You want control at all times.

    • Slow down.

    • Keep a larger space than normal between you and the driver in front of you.

    • Use your headlights to make your vehicle visible to others.

    • Know whether your vehicle has anti-lock brakes and learn to use them properly to avoid locking during braking.

      • If you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm and continuous pressure to the brake pedal.
      • If you do not have anti-lock brakes, you may need to pump your brakes if your wheels start to lock up.
  5. Be prepared for an emergency.
    • If your vehicle has stalled or you are stopped, make sure to stay with your vehicle.
    • Try to make your vehicle as visible as possible, using bright markers or lights.
    • If you must keep the vehicle on for warmth, be sure to keep the exhaust pipe clear of any blockage like snow.
Resources

https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/weather/weather_events/snow_ice.htm

https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-safety#note

https://www.safercar.gov/links/winter2016/



This blog entry is created for informational purposes only.  Any viewpoint or sponsorship of outside parties involved in the blog entry does not necessarily represent Goodville's stance as a company.  The blog should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.