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Winter Driving Safety Tips

Changing weather conditions in winter present special challenges for motorists in the form of snow, sleet, ice and increased hours of darkness.

The following safety tips are for motorists who drive in the winter weather:

Be prepared. Winter weather affects an automobile engine's operating efficiency. Have a tune-up and check the battery, lights, tires, brakes, windshield wipers and washer fluid, and heating and cooling systems to be certain everything is in good working order. Always maintain at least half a tank of gas to avoid a fuel line freeze and make sure tires are properly inflated.
Snow tires and all-season radials help driving in winter months. They give better traction and help in accelerating under many conditions. Snow tires, however, do not often give proper traction on ice. When ice, deep or hard packed snow are present, tire chains are still best. In New Jersey, studded snow tires can be used throughout November 15 and April 1 of each year.
Carry the following supplies in the trunk of your vehicle in case of an emergency:
- An ice scraper
- A shovel
- Jumper cables
- A blanket
- Sand
- Safety flares
- A flashlight
- Batteries
- A roll of electrical tape
- Windshield washer fluid
- A flag or cloth
Never drive when fatigued or taking a medication that makes you drowsy and slows your reaction time. Open a window from time to time; driving in a warm car can also make you less alert. Sunglasses enhance vision on bright days by cutting glare.
When traveler's warnings are issued, stay off the road unless you absolutely have to travel. Before driving in bad weather, clean all snow and ice from the entire car - windshield, mirrors, hood, roof, trunk, lights and windows.
When starting on snow and ice, keep your engine speed low. Gentle pressure on the accelerator pedal will help retain traction and avoid skids. If you wheels spin, shift to second or low gear.
Don't drive too closely to the vehicle in front. In snow and ice, travel at least two car lengths behind for every 10 m.p.h. of speed.
If you are driving a car equipped with anti-lock brakes, never pump the brakes. Pumping them disengages the function of the brake system. If your vehicle is equipped with conventional brakes, apply brakes gently and release just before brakes lock. Repeat the braking with short pauses in between each attempt.
If your vehicle breaks down, remain in the car and await help.
As always, drive safe, alert, sober and buckle up.