When the Roads are Rather Frightful...

Let's face it, we all have places that we have to be. Whether you need to go to work, school, or run errands around town, there is a time when you have to venture out into the winter weather. But how do you know if your vehicle can handle the roads and keep your family and yourself safe? I've done some research and have compiled a list of Do's and Don'ts for driving in the winter time. I hope that it will help you to stay safe this season when you are traveling.

Let's Start with the Don'ts of Traveling in Inclement Weather:

• Don't drive when you are fatigued. Make sure you are fully rested and alert when you get behind the wheel, or try carpooling with a friend. 
• Don't let your gas tank get below half-full. A low tank can lead to the gas line freeze-up, so make sure you make a stop at the gas station before parking your car overnight.
• Avoid using cruise control. It can be dangerous to use this feature on wet, icy, and sandy surfaces. 
• Don't warm up your vehicle in a garage or enclosed area.
• Don't stop on a hill. It is difficult to start going on a sloped surface, especially when it is icy. Also, avoid stopping in most situations. Determine if it is possible to safely coast forward as you wait for the light to change without having to fully stop.
• Don't spin your wheels if you get stuck in the snow--it will dig your vehicle deeper into the snow. 
• Don't leave your car unless you know where you are (if you get stranded). You are more likely to be found on the side of the road than if you are walking through a storm in an unknown area. 
• Don't feel pressured to always keep up with the speed limit. Use your own judgement and go slower if the weather is harsh. Police are likely to pull an aggressive driver over in the winter time, even if he is driving at the speed limit or below.

Now, the Do's:

• Make sure your car is in good working condition. Get a tuneup, check the tires, brakes, battery, coolant, and wipers.
• Always carry supplies for emergencies: flashlight and batteries, non-perishable foods, tire chains, cell phone, compass, first aid kit, ice scraper, matches, reflective triangles and brightly-colored cloth to attract attention. 
• Clean off your car fully before driving anywhere. Make sure your lights are uncovered and you have full use of your windshields and mirrors. 
• Carry sandbags in the back of your car for added weight.
• Accelerate and Decelerate slowly. Rushing is very dangerous this time of year--watch out for black ice and out-of-control drivers. Don't try to speed up a hill either. 
• Always look ahead. Be aware of other drivers and of upcoming traffic signals. 
• Always, always, always buckle up! Although it is state law to wear a seat belt, it is even more important to do so in the winter time. You may be the safest winter driver in the world--but there are others on the road, too. This is an easy way to keep you and your family safe.
• Slow down before turning or going on curves. Sure, your car may do fine on that curvy mountain road on a sunny day in May, but it can be very hazardous in the winter. Slow down, make sure no other vehicles are coming your way, and proceed with caution.
• Keep both hands on the wheel, preferably at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position. 
• Though the normal following distance is 3-4 seconds, this should be increased to 8-10 seconds in the winter to ensure that you have ample space to stop. 
• Be aware of your location and have specific directions when traveling in the snow. 
• Stay home if at all possible and use caution when traveling.

Enjoy the beautiful snow and have a happy, safe remainder of the winter.

Please comment with any additional Winter Driving suggestions that you may have!

Check out these links for additional tips:

Weather.com        AAA      CarTalk.com      The Chicago Tribune