Driving in Winter Conditions

In addition to preparing your car for winter it is equally important to follow winter guidelines while you’re driving. According to AAA, “Winter storms, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths every winter.”

Here are a few tips that can inform you on the safest ways to get around in winter conditions: 

  • Allow for extra time to get to your destination
  • Drive slowly. Stopping, accelerating and turning all take significantly longer in winter  conditions 
  • Be cautious on bridges since they may be even slicker than the roads
  • Avoid sharp or sudden movements
  • Keep a longer distance between you and the next vehicle 
  • Drive with your lights on day and night
  • Defrost all your windows before driving 
  • Stay home if possible
  • If you do happen to skid or slide it is important that you turn into it, not away from it to regain control