Are You Ready for Winter Driving?

WINTER DRIVING SAFETY TIPS



Winter driving calls for extra caution, with more snow and ice to deal with, and less daylight. Stay safe out there with these annual winter driving reminders.

 

Ahead of time:

• Practice handling your vehicle on ice and snow in an empty parking lot.
• Make sure brakes, wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.
• Check that antifreeze and windshield washer fluid are ready for colder temperatures.
• Put good snow tires (the same type) on all four wheels, and be sure they are properly inflated.
• Add winter items to your emergency kit: ice scraper/snow brush, shovel, non-clumping kitty litter or sand, warm clothing and boots, food and water, windshield washer fluid, candle and matches, blanket, non-freeze cleaner and paper towels to clean windshield and lights.
• Keep the gas tank at least half full.
• For the latest information on road conditions, dial 511 or check www.511vt.gov.
• Remember your cell phone, but be aware that you can’t always depend on it.
• Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, wipers, hood, trunk and roof.

On the road:

• Watch out for ice, especially on bridges, ramps, and overpasses.
• Slow down, minimize distractions and increase following distance to more than 4 seconds. Four- and all-wheel drive vehicles have better traction in snow, but not on ice. Be wary of over-confidence.
• Don’t use cruise control, and do use headlights.
• Be extra careful near snowplows, never try to pass on the right or when the snow cloud prevents you from seeing clearly, and allow plenty of room.
• Travel in daylight on main roads, don’t go alone, and let others know your route and schedule.
• To avoid skidding, take it slow and don’t make sudden changes in speed or direction. To slow down with control, take your foot off the gas. If you need brakes, squeeze the pedal with slow, steady pressure. Don’t pump anti-lock brakes, or remove your foot from the pedal when they vibrate.
• To recover from a skid, steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go, correcting as needed to the right and left until you’ve restored control.

If you’re stranded:

• Pull off the highway, use flashers and call for help if you can.
• Remain in your vehicle. Don’t leave unless you see shelter nearby, and be careful: distances can be deceiving, especially in deep snow.
• For warmth, light a candle or run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour. Open a downwind window slightly while it’s running, and keep snow clear from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise for body heat, but avoid overdoing. In extreme cold, wrap up in extra clothing and blankets. Even road maps, seat covers and floor mats can add insulation. Huddle with passengers.
• Take turns sleeping, leaving someone awake to look for rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, but not alcohol.
• Try not to waste battery power. Balance the need for lights, heat, and radio with supply.
• Turn on the inside light at night so rescuers can see you.

 Check out the AARP Driver Safetuy Course and get a discount on your car insurance from selected companies.

http://www.aarp.org/ws/EO/driver-safety-programs/