Winter Driving Safety Tips

  • Before you go-clean off your car. Don't forget the roof. It can be tempting to just start driving and hope all of the snow just comes off your car-but don't do it! It's dangerous for you and other drivers. Don't start driving until you have cleared the snow from windows, headlights and the top of the car. A broom is a great tool for reaching the top of your roof and pushing the snow off your vehicle. You can also buy an ice and snow scraper with an extendable handle. 
  • If you know that snow and ice are in the forecast, be sure to visit the gas station before the bad weather hits. Always keep your gas tank full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.  Also if something happens, and you are stranded, you'll need that full tank of gas to run the car heater until help arrives. If there is snow or cold weather in the forecast, don't forget to fill up your gas tank. 
  • When there is snow on the ground or if it is snowing, drive in another car's tracks. Don't drive on roads that do not have tracks in the snow from another car. Driving in these tracks can decrease your chance of sliding on ice or snow. Also, never pass a truck that is plowing snow or treating the road. Stay back a safe distance, but never pass the truck!   
  • It's better to always be prepared. So that's why you should always have a winter emergency kit that includes blankets, snacks, a phone charger that will work in your car, and water.  It's also a good plan to have extra hats and gloves in the car as well.
  • Even if you are running late, take extra precautions on the road when there is snow and ice. When driving, leave space between you and the car ahead of you. You never know when a car will need to hit their brakes, and if roads are icy or covered in snow, everyone will need extra space if their car starts to slide. Even if the roads look clear, you never know where there may be icy spots. So, the easiest thing to do is slow down! You can't always tell whether a road is icy. Slow down during the winter months on all roads! 
  • If you find yourself sliding on ice or snow, lightly pump your brakes rather than slamming the brakes. If you are traveling at a safe speed, pumping your brakes will slow down the car safely and prevent sliding on icy roads.