Tips for safe driving this winter

Wed., Nov. 16, 2005

Metro Features

It’s the one thing most automobile owners dread about winter — driving. According to Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA), transportation accidents are the leading cause of death during winter storms. Winter’s on its way and it’s important to play it safe when traveling. Prevent accidents by knowing how to drive safely. These tips will help.

Driving Tips

•Clear snow and ice from windows, lights, windshield wipers, the hood and the roof of your vehicle – before driving. The windshield-washer reserve should be filled with a freeze-resistant cleaning solution.

•When you see plows, stay at least 200 feet behind them.

•Stay abreast of road conditions by listening to the radio.

•Leave room for stopping. Brake early and carefully.

•Don’t use cruise control. The short touch of your brakes to deactivate the cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

•Pay attention. Look ahead to see what other vehicles are doing. That way you will know about any impending road or weather conditions.

•Watch your speed. Even if your car handles well in snow and ice, other drivers’ cars may not. Drive according to the conditions: Don’t exceed the speed limit and drive slowly in harsh conditions. Don’t try to out-drive bad weather.

Getting Unstuck from Snow

If you suddenly get stuck, the National Safety Council suggests turning your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way. Lightly touch the gas and ease forward.

If that doesn’t work, rock the vehicle. (Check the owner’s manual to make sure it won’t damage your transmission.) Shift from forward to reverse and back again. When you are in each gear, give a light touch on the gas pedal until the vehicle moves.

Getting out of a Skid

Skidding on ice can be scary. Make sure you know what to do so you aren’t rattled when it does happen. If your rear wheels skid, turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are skidding left, steer left. If they’re sliding right, steer right. If your rear wheels start sliding the other way, gently move the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle under control.

If your front wheels skid, take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral, without trying to steer immediately. As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you want to go. Then put the car in “drive” and gently accelerate.

The best winter-driving advice is to stay out of your car and use public transportation. And if possible, enjoy snowy days at home!

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