Winter Driving Tips

Winter+Driving+Tips

Jill Peruzzi, Reporter

Although it took longer than usual to get here, Alden’s winter season is in full swing. Whether you love or hate the snow, you will most likely have to drive in it. It’s important to take necessary precautions before hitting the road.

First, make sure to never warm up your vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage, and always keep your exhaust pipe clear of snow, ice, or mud to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Also, maintain at least a half tank of gas at all times to avoid gas line freeze-up.

Tire tread should not be worn down to less than 1/8 of an inch to ensure proper traction on icy roads. Snow tires are definitely a good idea, and sandbags are a relatively cheap way to give trucks and light cars some added weight. Placing two large sandbags in your trunk or truck bed can help to increase friction. Clearing off your vehicle completely is essential, especially head and tail lights. Remember that speed limits are meant for dry roads, not roads covered in ice and snow. It’s important to slow down and keep at least an 8-10 second distance between cars, instead of the usual 3-4 seconds. In addition, refrain from using cruise control when conditions are slippery.

Accelerating and decelerating slowly helps to regain traction and avoid skids. In case your car does skid, follow these steps:

  • Remain calm.
  • Don’t slam on the brakes.
  • Take your foot off the gas.
  • Steer your car in the direction you want to go.
  • Wait for the car to slow down so you can regain control.

There is also the possibility of getting stranded in the snow. Staying in your vehicle provides temporary shelter and warmth, while making it easier for a rescuer to locate you. Make sure to only run the engine long enough to maintain heat, and then turn it off to conserve gas. It’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit so you’re prepared for this type of situation. Some helpful items include:

  • Booster cables
  • Cloth/Roll of paper towels
  • Flashlight
  • Gloves/Blankets
  • Nonperishable food
  • Shovel/Snow brush/Ice scraper
  • Small bag of sand, salt, or kitty litter to spread around tires to increase traction
  • Warning devices such as flares or triangles
  • Window-washing solution

Drive with care and stay safe on the roads this winter!