into bad winter weather.
If you must travel in bad winter weather, begin with a "walk around" of
your vehicle before leaving your driveway. Check your tires, wipers and
fluids, radiator and heating system. You can prevent many of the
problems that strand motorists on the side of the road.
Slow down. Increase your following distance substantially in snow and
ice to help with braking and ease visibility problems from spraying snow
and ice.
Expect the unexpected. Try to avoid situations where you have to
make a quick move; your car may not stop or turn the way you want it to.
If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump brakes in
attempting to stop. The right way is to "stomp and steer!"
Look further ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by cars and
trucks will alert you quicker to problems and give you a split-second extra
time to react safely.
Use low beam headlights for best visibility. Stop often to clean lights--
especially taillights.
Be aware of a truck’s blind spot and spray from snow or slush. If you
can't see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then the truck driver can't
see you.
Signal your intentions to change lanes well ahead of time. If a truck is
signaling its intention to change lanes, allow it space to do so. Often, it
may have seen a wintertime hazard, or it is trying to avoid another vehicle.
Remember that trucks are heavier — and especially in winter road
conditions — they take longer to safely respond and come to a complete
stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
On highway entrance ramps, remember highway traffic has the right of
way; maintain proper speed and use smooth merging techniques. Avoid
slowing down in front of a truck at a ramp — all the more important in
snowy and icy conditions.
Dress warmly. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged. Keep a "care
package" in your vehicle. Include a snow shovel, a blanket, warm gloves,
flashlight and batteries, some non-perishable snacks or food.
Understand that trucks cannot always stop to assist you, but most will
use their radios to contact the police or highway patrol with your exact
location if they see you are in trouble.
