SNOW COVERED VEHICLE
Don't
clean snow and ice from only the windshield and driver's window before driving. The snow and ice on your car's hood can blind you when you accelerate and the wind blows it onto your windshield. Similarly, snow and ice on your roof can do the same to drivers behind you.
·
Do
clean off the vehicle completely-including all outside mirrors
.
Be sure you can see clearly in all directions before you start driving.
DRIVING ON SNOW
·
Don't
underestimate the dangers of driving on snow. That fresh fallen coat of snow could be hiding ice or potholes. Your snow tires or all-wheel drive might not slow your vehicle quickly on a snow covered road
.
·
Do
allow more following distance. Under normal road conditions you should allow three to four seconds between vehicles; AAA recommends at least eight to 10 seconds on slippery roads.
WINTER SURVIVAL KIT
·
Don't
assume that by staying on surface streets you won't get stuck in a traffic jam or stranded. Snowplows can't be everywhere at once during a heavy snowfall, and rain or snow can suddenly turn to freezing rain, tying up roads in all directions
.
·
Do
keep a winter survival kit in your car, with a snow brush, ice scraper, blanket, boots, flashlight and bag of cat litter (to provide tire traction).
HITTING THE BRAKES
·
Don't
slam on the brakes if you start to skid or slide. If your car has antilock brakes, don't pump them-apply steady pressure, and they will automatically do the pumping for you. (Not sure if your car has antilock brakes? Check the owner's manual or look for an ABS light on your dash.) If your vehicle doesn't have antilock brakes, pump the brakes quickly to avoid skidding as you slow down.
·
Do
give yourself more time to reach your destination all winter long. When temperatures are near or below freezing, beware of black ice, which is difficult to see because its transparency makes it virtually invisible.
WEATHER WARNINGS
·
Don't
assume local authorities are being overly cautious when they issue a statement warning drivers to stay off roads.
·
Do
heed their warnings, and when they say to stay home, stay home, even without an official warning, if the conditions are potentially dangerous. Don't venture onto the roads unless absolutely necessary.
The
Bottom
Line
To ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter, have it checked by a qualified technician
.
Article courtesy of AAA Foundation at
AAA.COM/AAALIVING
,
JANUARY/FEBRUARY
2015.
For more information on reducing risk or any of our other services, please contact Jeff Harrison at jeff.harrison@cbservices.org or 800.807.0300 ext 2543