You are here: Home > Risk Alerts > 12/24/09

Risk Alerts

Planning ahead helps avoid winter driving emergencies

by Mike Hackbart, PACE Senior Claims Consultant

With our first Arctic weather event in our rear view mirror, and winter staring at us through the windshield, now is the time finish your winter preparation and review a few tips to keep you on the road and out of ditches and repair shops.

Winter preparation starts by ensuring your vehicle is ready for winter weather, making sure you can cope with colder temperatures, and increasing awareness when behind the wheel.

Car Prep

Check the charge in the battery, fluid levels including anti-freeze, ignition wiring, lights and signals, tires (minimum 1/8" tread life), brakes, windshield wipers and washers. Remember to keep the fuel tank at least half-full at all times. And add weight to the back of rear wheel drive vehicles, including pick-ups, to improve traction.

Winter Driving Kit

Keep the following items, which are invaluable during a winter driving emergency, in your vehicle: tire chains, abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter, a small shovel, a flashlight, an ice scraper, rags or paper towels, first aid kit, blankets, flares or other warning devices, and booster (jumper) cables. In addition, it is a good idea to pack bottled water and some snacks, such as energy bars. And be sure your mobile phone is fully charged before you hit the road.

Winter High-Elevation Driving Kit

Include all items in the above outlined Winter Driving Kit, and add boots and newspapers (which can be used as insulation between skin and clothing).

*** Please remember that it is usually best to remain with a stranded vehicle rather than risk exposure or become lost while walking for help.***

Drive Smart

Rain, snow and ice impair your ability to see and increase the braking distance required to stop your vehicle. In these conditions, slow down, increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, and apply the brakes sooner and more gently than usual. When braking, consider the type of braking system you have and how to apply brakes properly (for example, don't pump anti-lock brakes); and make gentle stops and starts to prevent skids. Dress according to weather conditions. Let others know your travel plans, including destination, route, and expected time of arrival so they can alert authorities if you don't make it to your destination.

Remember, the law requires that you drive at a speed that is reasonable and cautious for the existing conditions. Headlights must be turned on from sunset to sunrise. Lights also must be on at any time conditions make it difficult to see people or vehicles 1,000 feet ahead. By using your headlights on rainy, snowy, or foggy days, you will help other drivers see you and give yourself an extra safety margin.

Here are a few other ideas to help you drive safely on snow and ice:

Keep windows clear of snow, ice, and fog.
Keep a light, steady foot on the gas pedal.
Get the "feel" of the road away from traffic when you start driving. Try your brakes lightly so you will know what to expect.
Make turns at a reduced, steady speed to avoid a skid.
Do not slam on your brakes to stop on snow or ice. If you slam on the brakes, your vehicle will almost always skid. Instead, gently press the brakes and then release them.
Watch for danger spots ahead. Bridges and shaded areas freeze first and may remain icy after the rest of the road is free of ice.
Remember that temperature plays a part in stopping ability. The road is likely to be the most slippery when ice is near the freezing point rather than at lower temperatures.
When you go uphill on an ice-covered or snowy road, apply just enough power to maintain motion, without causing the wheels to spin.
Pay attention to weather forecasts and police warnings. When police or highway officials say driving is very hazardous, stay off the road except for essential travel.
Do not use cruise control.