Dear Driver,
Winter means different things depending upon where you are
driving. In the South it may bring rain and fog, while in the Northeast, Midwest, and mountainous regions it means snow, ice, and
slippery roads. Wherever you go, it means reduced visibility and reduced
traction.
What a lot of people don't know is that a majority of the
accidents do not happen during the winter months, they happen in favorable
conditions. Drivers often don't associate as many risks with pleasant
conditions, even though the risks are still there. As risk increases, drivers become
more alert and are all-around better drivers. Here are some simple tips to help
you on your winter trips.
Begin with a "walk around", checking your tires,
wipers, fluids, radiator, and heating system. Also try to keep your handholds
and steps as dry as possible to prevent a potential slip or fall.
SLOW DOWN! Increase your following distance by seven to nine
seconds to aid in braking time and visibility problems of flying snow, ice, or
slush. Excessive speed for conditions is the most common cause of accidents in
bad weather.
Place as much weight over the drive axle as legally possible
to help reduce spinning of drive wheels.
Make sure to take extra care shifting on inclines and
declines so you don't lock-up or spin your wheels.
Always expect the unexpected. Look further ahead in traffic
to help avoid a situation where you have to make a quick move.
Use your low beams to minimize the glare and hypnotic effect
of the falling snow.
Finally, remember to dress warm or have extra clothes with
you. If you have a cell phone, make sure that the cell phone is fully charged.
Winter is usually a family time for all of us. It's well
worth it for all us to take that extra safety step so we can make it home safely.