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Proper planning can prevent winter car mishaps.
Winter driving, especially during a storm, requires extra precautions.
- Pay attention to weather reports and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Don’t start a car in a closed garage because carbon monoxide fumes could build up.
- Clear snow and ice from the windshield, windows, lights and the top and hood of the car before you begin your trip.
- Keep windows clear inside and out while driving.
- Avoid sudden starts, stops and turns. Accelerate slowly so your wheels won’t spin.
- Drive slowly enough for conditions, but not so slowly that you will cause an accident.
- Use headlights if your windshield wipers are on. Use low-beam lights for better road illumination in snow and fog.
- Don’t follow other cars too closely. Double or triple usual distances.
- Signal earlier than usual when making a turn.
- Don’t use cruise control on slick roads.
- Become familiar with the way your vehicle handles in winter weather. Front-wheel-drive cars operate different on slick roads than rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
- Pump your brakes gradually to slow down if the car starts to slide. If you have an anti-locking braking system, press firmly on your brakes.
- Avoid parallel parking when icy.
- Carry a fully charged cell phone in case of emergency.
- Let someone know your destination, route and your expected arrival time. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
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