Winter weather has arrived, leaving many drivers feeling unprepared for venturing out in their vehicles. Here are some tips and reminders to keep you safe and feeling confident behind the wheel.
Prepare your vehicle with winter tires and make sure you leave time to clear away snow and ice. Don’t be that driver who peeks through a small patch of window, while trailing clumps of snow from the roof of their car– make sure all windows are completely clear.
Stopping on ice or snow takes additional time so keep extra space between you and other drivers. Make sure you have at least 4 seconds following distance between you and the car in front of you.
Look at least a block and a half ahead of where you are. This allows you to spot hazards and respond early if necessary. Move your eyes every few seconds to keep focused on the changing environment.
Be visible – Daytime running lights only turn on a low beam so turn on your headlights to illuminate your brake lights and help you be seen from the front AND behind.
Slow your speed depending on the road conditions. Always assume there could be black ice, know how to handle a skid.
If you skid, stay calm and shift your car into neutral or put the clutch in if you are driving a standard shift vehicle. This stops the tires from moving forward until you can regain control. Take your foot off the accelerator and never brake. Always look in the direction you want your vehicle to go. This takes skill and happens very quickly!
Keep Calm and DriveWise on…
