With the approach of winter, Safe Communities of Wood County reminds motorists that snow is just around the corner and to exercise caution when driving.
Whether it’s snow, sleet or ice, winter weather can cause extremely dangerous road conditions, said Sandy Wiechman, Safe Driving coordinator. “Preparing yourself and your vehicle for winter weather is key.”
Ms. Wiechman advises drivers to remember the basics.
“Slow down. It’s harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface,” she said.
In 2020, there were an estimated 119,000 police- reported crashes that occurred in wintry conditions.
When on the road, drivers should increase their following distance so there is plenty of time to stop for vehicles ahead of you.
“Don’t crowd a snow plow or travel beside the truck,” she added.
Snow plows travel slowly, make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes, and exit the road frequently. If behind a snow plow, keep a safe distance and use caution when passing.
Ms. Wiechman offers several other reminders.
In An Emergency
If stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself and passengers, the car and surroundings.
Stay with the car and don’t overexert yourself.
Let your car be seen. Put bright markers on the antenna or windows and keep the interior dome light on.
Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car only sporadically–just long enough to stay warm. Don’t run the car for long periods of time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.
Batteries
When the temperature drops, so does battery power. In cold weather, gasoline and diesel engines take more battery power to start, and electric and hybrid-electric vehicles’ driving range can be reduced. Have a mechanic check the battery, charging system, belts, and for any other needed repairs or replacements.
Safety Technologies
Familiarize yourself with the safety technologies on the vehicle and how they perform in wintry conditions. Know whether the vehicle has an antilock brake system and learn how to use it properly.
Antilock brake systems prevent the wheels from locking up during braking. If the car has antilock brakes, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal. If it doesn’t have antilock brakes, pump the brakes if the wheels start to lock up.
Lights
Check the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers and interior lights. Be sure to also check the trailer brake lights and turn signals, if necessary.
Windshield Wipers
Motorists can quickly go through a lot of windshield wiper fluid in a single snowstorm. Make sure the vehicle’s reservoir is full of high-quality “winter” fluid with de-icer before winter weather hits.
Make sure defrosters and all windshield wipers work and replace any worn blades. Consider installing heavyduty winter wipers if you reside in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice.
Cooling System
Make sure there is enough coolant in the vehicle, and that it meets the manufacturer’s specifications. See the owner’s manual for recommendations. Check the cooling system for leaks, test the coolant and drain or replace the old coolant.
Motorists also may want to visit a mechanic for a tuneup and ask to check for leaks, badly worn hoses, or other needed parts, repairs and replacements.
The Safe Communities coordinator also recommends the following when taking a trip in the winter.
Stock Vehicle
Carry items in the vehicle to handle common winter driving-related tasks. Supplies you might need in an emergency, include a snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper; abrasive material– sand or kitty litter–in case the vehicle gets stuck in the snow; jumper cables, flashlight, and warning devices such as flares and emergency markers; blankets for protection from the cold, and a cell phone and charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine.
Gas Up or Plug It In
Keep the gas tank close to full whenever possible.
For electric and hybridelectric vehicles, decrease the drain on the battery. In general, lithium ion batteries have reduced energy at lower temperatures. Additionally, most all vehicle batteries will use battery power for selfheating in low temperatures.
The battery drain due to heating can be minimized by keeping your electric vehicle as warm as possible during freezing temperatures A common way to do this: plug your vehicle in at night during the winter, keeping the battery temperature in its optimal ranges.
Plan Your Route
Check local weather and traffic reports before heading out. If roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. If you must go out, be prepared for delays while traveling.
If making a long road trip when winter weather is forecast, consider leaving early or changing the departure time to avoid being on the roads during the worst of the storm.
Become familiar with directions and maps before leaving—even if using a GPS—and let others know the route and anticipated arrival time.
On longer trips, plan enough time to stop to stretch, get something to eat, check your phone and change drivers or rest if drowsy.
Above all, Ms. Wiechman advises, “Avoid risky driving behaviors. Know the rules: Do not text or drive distracted; obey posted speed limits; and always drive sober.”
She points out that alcohol and drugs can impair safe and responsible driving by affecting coordination, judgment, perception and reaction time.
“And remember–always wear your seat belt,” she added.
