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Winter Driving Safety

Winter Driving Safety

According to the Department of Transportation, nearly 70% of the US roads are in areas that receive 5 inches of snow or more annually.  This requires most of us to adjust our driving during the winter months to avoid being involved in an accident.  Around 1,300 people are killed and over 100,000 injured each year in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement.

First, we must prepare for the dangers of winter driving. Some best practices include:

  • Inspecting tires and replacing them if necessary.  Tires rated for snow may be appropriate.
  • Ensure that your batteries are in good condition as they lose power in colder conditions.
  • Check your lights, wipers and cooling system.
  • Fill up your windshield washer fluid.
  • Stock your vehicle with an Ice scraper, shovel, a flashlight, a first aid kit, warm gloves and a blanket.

Avoid driving in bad weather and check the forecast before leaving on a trip.  If you must drive in snow or ice conditions remember the following:

  • Keep all windows clear.
  • Check for ice and snow blocking your exhaust pipe or tires.
  • Wear your seat belt.
  • Slow down and maintain additional distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
  • Avoid using cruise control.
  • Brake slowly while anticipating the need to slow down based on what is ahead of you.
  • Keep headlights on so you are clearly visible to other drivers.

If you break down, pull over as far away from oncoming traffic as soon as possible, stay in your vehicle, and use your cell phone to call emergency services.

Disclaimer

The information contained herein is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with your own legal and/or other professional advisors. Some of the information, examples and suggestions presented in this material may be compiled by third-party sources we consider to be reliable; however, we do not guarantee and are not responsible for the accuracy of such information. We assume no duty in contract, tort, or otherwise in connection with this publication and expressly disclaim, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any liability in connection with this publication. Verita CSG, Inc. does not undertake to update the information included herein after the date of publication. Accordingly, readers should be aware that certain content may have changed since the date of this publication.