The most important number one tip. If you don't have to go out, don't! It is that simple. Unfortunately, not everyone has that luxury and some people have to bare and grin it. Here are a few tips to remember if you do have to be out.
- Hopefully before winter even got here we all took care of winterizing our vehicles but if you didn't then tips for next winter or those of you in other countries going into winter. Make sure your vehicle is in tip top shape. Here is a great list of things you can check.
- Know what is going on in your area before you even get in your car. Most places have a number you can call for road conditions and you don't want to get stuck out somewhere when you could have prevented it. For instance, this past snow storm we had shut down I-70 in our area. It would have not been pretty to be stuck on the interstate for hours on end. :/
- If you do have to drive be sure to clear the snow from your vehicle. Driving with snow on your roof or hood can be hazardous to your own driving but makes it hazardous for other drivers as well. That is just reckless driving!
- Once you finally get in your car, put on your seat belt. If you do (heaven forbid) have an accident then that seat belt could save your life.
- Leave early to get to your destination. A 55 mph speed limit is not a 55 mph speed limit in winter conditions. Adjust your time to get to where you need to be so that you can drive safely and get there safely.
- Do NOT pass snow plows. Not only is it dangerous because they are pushing snow around it also makes it hard for them to see you in those conditions. Why would you want to pass a snow plow anyways? They are making it safer for YOU to drive.
- If you are driving in areas were snow is heavy (like in the mountains) then be sure to stock your vehicle with supplies. You never know what could go wrong and you don't want to be stranded without a way to stay warm.
I hope none of you are having to deal with too much driving in bad winter weather conditions but if you are, stay safe!
