By Brent Mix Capt/ PIO
Happy New Year, to all the residents and visitors of the White Mountains. If you are a new driver to snow and ice, or you just want to see what you are doing is recommended, you are going to want to read this article.
The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it. Don’t go out until the snow plows have had a chance to do their work, and allow your- self extra time to reach your destination. If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared, and that you know how to handle road conditions.
It’s helpful to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy, open parking lot, so you’re familiar with how your car handles. Consult your owner’s manual for tips specific to your vehicle.
Driving safely on icy roads
- Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
- Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
- Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
- Keep your lights and windshield clean.
- Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
- Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
- Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
- Don’t pass snow plows and cinder trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you’re likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
- Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads
These are just a few helpful hints on winter driving for you and yours. These tips were brought to you by www.weather.com and the Show Low Fire Department. Please be safe this winter in your travels.