Of all the things you can do to make winter driving less stressful, giving yourself a little more time is the most important. Going slower is also a key to safe driving in winter. Take special care when driving in ice or snow:
- Drive slower than normal in slippery conditions.
- Increase your distance between you and vehicles in front of you.Be prepared for skids by slowing down early on curves and on downhill slopes.
- Keep your headlights on, both to help you see and to help others see you.
- Don’t try to drive around or through an obvious trouble zone—slow down and be prepared to stop.
- Don’t assume that a 4-wheeldrive vehicle is skid-proof!
- Don’t let ice or snow accumulate on your windshield, windows, mirrors, or lights.
- Don’t mix driving and alcohol.
Also, make sure:
- Tires have been properly inflated
Tires have sufficient tread
All lights work
Windshield wipers work properly; blades are not worn
Windshield washer fluid reservoir is full and works properly
Battery is charged and doesn’t need replacement
In extreme weather conditions, the safest choice is to stay off the road!
