Driving in Winter Conditions

12/24/2020 (Permalink)

17% of all vehicle crashes happen in winter conditions.

If you get caught in the cold during the winter the consequences are serious, you are vulnerable to things like frostbite, hypothermia, and even heart problems. With cold weather right around the corner it is best to be prepared for winter storms and the things that come with it. Make sure to monitor road conditions before you get in your car to make sure the roads are ok to drive on. Listed below are some tips that can help you be prepared for driving this winter.

Make Preparations

It is always important to prepare before you travel, some things you can do to make sure you arrive safe include

• Check/ Replace windshield wipers
• Check/ replace tire (winter tires may be necessary)
• Pack an emergency kit
• Make sure you always have enough gas

Before leaving you house:

• Clean off the snow on your car. Having snow on your car while you’re driving is putting yourself and other drivers at risk
• Let someone know when you’re heading out
• Check the weather forecast/ road conditions before heading out

How to drive during snowy conditions

Snowy conditions bring low visibility and with winds it can be even worse. When you are driving be sure to keep your distance between you and other vehicles, this will allow some stopping distance in case the roads are slick.  Some other things to watch out for include black ice, reckless drivers, and isolated ice patches.