Icy and wintery road conditions can pose a danger to anyone, even if you're driving a four wheel drive truck. These winter driving dips could mean the difference between arriving at your destination safely or a slippery mishap!
-
Make sure your car is winter ready!- Be sure your fuel tank is filled, your oil is changed, and your other fluids have been topped off before you take that winter drive.
-
No flat tires!
- Colder temperatures mean a potential drop in air pressure in your tires. Make sure all your tires are inflated to the proper PSI to avoid a flat in the cold weather.
-
Drive slowly!
- "If you rarely drive in the snow, just pretend you're taking grandma to church. There's a platter of biscuits and two gallons of sweet tea in glass jars in the back seat. She's wearing a new dress and holding a crock pot full of gravy."
-
Accelerate and decelerate slowly
- Slamming on the brakes or the gas while driving in the snow can cause a loss of traction, leading to a loss of control of the vehicle.
-
Dont power up hills
- Try and pick up a little speed before you reach a hill and allow the intertia produced to carry you to the top. As you crest the hill, reduce your speed and proceed cautiously down the hill. Do not stop while going up a hill.
-
Increase the distance between cars and know your brakes
- If you need to stop, increasing the distance between cars will provide a safer distance to reduce speed.
-
Stay connected with others
- Let people know if you're taking a risky winter drive, where you're going, and what your estimate time of arrival will be.
-
Pay attention!
- A moment of distraction could mean disaster when driving in wintery conditions. Keep your eyes on the road!
-
Always wear your seatbelt
-
Come prepared
- Prepare a winter emergency kit for your vehicle. If you get stranded on a drive, having food, emergency blankets, and other supplies can make all the difference.