Winter Driving Safety Tips

February 12, 2008

People often ask for a few tips to help navigate though winter’s weather. As we all know how unpredictable the weather can be, preparation is the key to help ensure safe travels.

The first and foremost tip I give motorists is to use additional caution to be aware of the other drivers that are on the road and properly alter your driving habits when in poor-weather conditions. Drivers should maintain sufficient distance from the vehicles in front of them as winter-road conditions often result in longer stopping distances – allow at least three seconds distance between cars and avoid abrupt actions while steering, braking, and accelerating.

With the usual increase in precipitation, road grime is more likely to accumulate on the windshield. A good habit to adopt is to clean the windshield with every fill up, and regularly check the washer-fluid level to make sure there is an adequate amount remaining in the reservoir. To ensure clear visibility while on the roads, motorists should make it a habit to check their wiper blades every oil change for any nicks or tears in the rubber and change them twice a year. To remind motorists of this bi-annual task, Rain-X launches its third annual Seemore Safety Campaign on February 2, 2008.

The campaign, a safe-driving initiative now in its third year, is designed to remind motorists to use Groundhog Day as a yearly reminder to change their wiper blades. The Campaign's six-foot tall mascot "Seemore the Safety Groundhog" helps spread the message of safety and clear vision.

Another good habit to incorporate into your maintenance routine is to pay extra attention to the vehicle’s tires in the winter. Motorists should routinely inspect the air pressure and the tread on their tires – the correct tire tread depth and pressure are both crucial for driving in rain and snow. To determine the proper air pressure that is needed in the tires, you can refer to the car’s owners manual; look on the driver’s side door jamb or get the make, model, and size off of the tire’s sidewall and call your local tire store so that they can tell you the proper air pressure that is needed in your tires. Also remember to routinely check the condition of your spare tire. It is recommended that when driving in wet winter conditions that a tire have a tread depth of at least 6/32 of an inch.

Lastly, it is important for motorists to prepare for any incidents while traveling. In case of a roadside breakdown, keep an emergency roadside kit in the trunk. This kit should include items such as all of the necessary car fluids, flares, and or road safety devices, a jump box, tow-rope, flashlight with extra batteries, and something as simple as kitty litter to give you extra traction if you get stuck. In case you break down in the middle of nowhere, always keep water, high-energy snacks, warm clothing, and a blanket.

Following these simple suggestions can help you be prepared for most winter weather situations.

Barbara Terry
AskPatty Expert Advisor