Well it certainly was a white Christmas for us over here in Wisconsin! Now that the holidays are over things have settled down a bit but winter weather hasn’t seemed to slow at all. Winter months can bring unpredictable weather conditions which can be difficult for operating vehicles. Here are some winter weather driving tips to make sure you get from point A to point B safely (and hopefully on time!).

When driving:

• Only drive if absolutely necessary. Do you really need groceries or can you make do with the food you have at your house for a day or so? More drivers out on the roads increase the likelihood of other car accidents and make it more difficult for snowplows to clear the snow.
• Decrease speed and increase the distance between your car and other cars. If you aren’t sure if it’s slippery or not, assume it is and take it slow.
• Brake slowly and gently. If you start skidding ease off the brakes and focus on steering.  Holding down your brakes while skidding can cause your wheels to lock up, try pumping them if you feel like you are skidding and need to continue to slow down.
• Don’t use your cruise control when conditions are icy.  Using cruise control gives you less control of your car and it won’t automatically ease up on the gas if an icy patch sneaks up on you.
• When passing trucks, keep in mind they often need a little more time to slow down so give them more room.
• No texting! Keep your focus on the roads and off your phone.

If you are trapped in the car during a winter storm:

• Remain in your vehicle so someone can find you. Only leave after the blizzard has passed and there is restored visibility.
• Turn on your inside light to make you more visible to help.
• If you have more than one person in the car take turns sleeping so someone is awake to spot help.
• Turn on your hazard lights to make others aware of you. If you have a bright item of clothing you could use that for a flag-like device.

I always have at least one shovel in the trunk of my car as well as some kitty litter to provide traction if I get stuck. For longer car trips you should always bring along blankets, winter boots, hats, gloves and other winter weather gear in case you run into trouble. An EMT also gave me some good advice- if you have a cell phone keep it on your person- meaning, tuck it in your jacket or pants pocket. I used to put mine in the passenger seat but was told that if I were in an accident that my phone, along with other items in the car, would most likely be thrown from my grasp and I wouldn’t be able to call for help.

I found lots of tips from these websites: Fema.gov and Weather.com . If you have other tips that aren’t listed here, please post below. Happy driving!

Related Posts:

Road Safety: The Dangers of Texting While Driving
Food Safety: Ground Beef
Food Safety: Chicken

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