Safe Winter Driving Tips
During this time of the year, driving in Chicago can be intimidating and dangerous due to cold weather conditions. Driving in the ice, snow, and slush can be difficult even for the most experienced drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 17 percent of all vehicle crashes happen during winter weather conditions. Therefore, Strellis and Field wants to share some winter driving tips to ensure your safety!
Before You Go
If the weather is treacherous and it is not crucial for you to drive, it is always safer to stay at home and not take any unnecessary risks. If you decide to head out, it is important to make sure your vehicle is in top shape in order to drive safely. Stay up to date on maintenance and tune-ups. Pay special attention to parts of the vehicle that are affected by cold temperatures such as the battery, tires, windshield wipers, radiator, and defrosters. Always have at least half a tank of gas in your car. It is also always a good idea to keep some extra supplies in your car for emergencies such as a blanket, first aid kit, flashlight, glass scraper, warm clothing, and some snacks and water. Before you leave, fully clear off any snow, ice or dirt from the windshield, windows, lights, sensors and safety cameras. As always, buckle up!
While Driving
Pay attention. It is imperative to be more cautious and attentive when driving in winter weather conditions. Avoid any distractions such as cellphones, and always keep your eyes on the road.
Drive slowly. Drive slower than usual, it is easy to slip on ice and snow as tire traction is reduced.
Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Be gentle when applying pressure to the gas pedal. If you press too hard on the gas pedal, tires can spin quickly and lose traction which can cause you to lose control. Also, give yourself more room to slow down, it takes longer to reduce speeds when driving on snow and ice.
Increase your following distance. Make sure to increase your usual following distance of 3 full seconds to at least 6-10 seconds. As previously mentioned, it takes more time to slow down in winter conditions, so give yourself some extra room between you and vehicles around you.
Brake with care. Always pay close attention to the road ahead of you in order to avoid sudden braking. If you need to brake, apply the brakes in slow steady strokes to reduce the chance of sliding.
Turn off cruise control. In slippery conditions such as snow and ice, cruise control is dangerous and should be turned off. If your car skids and is on cruise control, it will automatically accelerate to maintain the constant speed which will rapidly spin the tires and can cause you to lose control.
Road conditions. Certain parts of the road such as hills, bridges, turns, underpasses and shaded spots can be surprisingly icy when the rest of the road is clear. Approach these parts of the road with extra caution and slow down!
If you are stuck or stalled, stay with your car and do not over-exert yourself. Your car will provide shelter, keep you warm and will help emergency personnel to find you. If possible, try to clear the exhaust pipe so it is not clogged with snow, ice or mud.
If you or your family member has been injured by an automobile accident, contact our office today for a free initial consultation and a complete analysis of the circumstances. Our lawyers are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Stay safe and warm this winter season!
