First and foremost, SLOW DOWN! It’s harder to control or stop your
vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface.
Try to keep moving at reduced speed. It’s often harder to stop and
then start again in ice and snow. Slow down but try to keep moving,
especially on hills and bridges. It’s often best to slow down BEFORE
you start onto a bridge due to icing. Bridges and overpasses usually
ice before roads and stay that way after roads have cleared
Double your distance. Following distance should be increased.
Keep Headlights on. Other drivers seeing you is paramount in bad
weather.
- Make sure you have a Roadside Safety kit. This should include
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Water
- Roadside Markers
- Scraper
Dress to Arrive. An overlooked part of winter driving is dressing the
part. Said another way, Dress like you are going to have to walk, just
in case you do. Winter shoes, warm headwear, and a winter coat are
essential for all drivers and passengers.
Did I say SLOW DOWN? It is the number one way to manager poor
conditions if you have to drive.
What to Do in an Emergency
If you are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself and
your passengers, your car, and your surroundings.
- Stay with your car and don’t overexert yourself.
- Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and
keep the interior dome light on. - Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure your exhaust pipe
is clear of any snow and run your car only sporadically — just long
enough to stay warm. Don’t run your car for long periods of time with the
windows up or in an enclosed space.
Safety Technologies
Familiarize yourself with the safety technologies on your vehicle and how they perform
in wintry conditions. Know whether your vehicle has an antilock brake system and learn
how to use it properly. Antilock brake systems prevent your wheels from locking up
during braking. If you have antilock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake
pedal. If you don’t have antilock brakes, you may need to pump your brakes if you feel
your wheels starting to lock up. For more information on driver assistance technologies,
visit NHTSA.gov/DriverAssistTech.
Please stay safe and warm!
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