According to Sgt. Neil Dickenson of the Minnesota State Patrol, this is a great time to talk about winter driving safety and remind drivers about the dangers of driving on slippery roads to reduce the chances of being involved in a crash. Dickenson lists these tips as important for drivers:
. Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions are too
poor.
. Buckle up, and make sure child restraints are
secured tight.
. Drive at safe speeds according to road conditions,
and provide for plenty of travel time.
. Increase safe stopping distance between vehicles.
. Use extra precautions when driving around
snowplows by keeping at least five car-lengths
behind plows.
. If skidding, remain calm, ease foot off the gas,
and turn the steering wheel in the direction you
want the front of the vehicle to go.
. If vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS),
apply a steady firm pressure to the brake pedal.
Never pump ABS brakes.
. Clear snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood,
headlights, brake lights and directional signals.
. Headlights must be turned on when it is snowing
or sleeting.
. Do not use cruise control on snowy, icy or wet
roads. Conditions can change over every hill and
around every curve. Be very aware of bridge
decks and overpasses.
. Equip vehicles with a scraper/brush, small shovel,
jumper cables, tow chain, and a bag of sand
or cat litter for tire traction. Blanket(s), heavy
boots, warm clothing and flashlights are also
important, as are storing high-energy foods such
as chocolate or energy bars.
. Be sure cell phones are charged for long trips, and
inform family of destination plans and schedule.
. If stranded, stay in the vehicle.
. Parents of teen drivers should make sure new
motorists experience snow and ice driving in a
safe environment, such as an empty parking lot.
. Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles
parked at a scene.
. Have good winter tires on your vehicle.
. Have a good set of windshield wipers on your
vehicle.
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