It is crucial to fully understand how to operate a vehicle in freezing rain, snow and sleet if you plan to travel in the New York and New Jersey metro area this winter. Here are some important driving safety tips that could protect you and your family.

One of the best ways to avoid a car accident in winter weather is to make sure your equipment is up to the task before the frozen precipitation hits the ground. For example, be sure your car’s tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated. Check that all lights are clean and in good working order, and make sure that windshield wipers and the defroster and heat all work as they should. Keep your tank full of gas, be sure to have plenty of washer fluid and make sure the anti-freeze in the radiator is ready for cold temperatures.

Even if your car is fully prepared, driving in icy or snowy conditions is still much different from driving in warmer weather. If you are unfamiliar with driving in snow and ice, it is important that you practice. If you have a young driver in the family, take the time to teach him or her winter driving techniques. Practice these techniques in an empty parking lot so you gain familiarity with how your vehicle responds on snow and ice.

The safest way to avoid a winter car accident is to stay put when inclement weather strikes. Of course, that is not an option for everyone at all times. If you must venture out, keep these tips in mind:

1. Maintain a much longer following distance between your vehicle and the traffic ahead, since stopping distances are much longer on slick surfaces. If another car is following you too closely, pull over and let the vehicle pass you.
2. If your car starts to skid, steer toward the direction you want the car to go.
3. Braking is different on snow and ice. Know whether your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes (most cars built in the past 15 years have them). You should stomp on anti-lock brakes as hard as possible to stop without skidding. If your car lacks anti-lock brakes, you should pump the pedal to avoid brake lockup and a skid.
4. Slow down. On snow and ice, it is imperative that you drive slowly. Accelerate, brake and steer gently to avoid skidding. Remember that four-wheel drive may help keep you from getting stuck, but it doesn’t make you invincible. Even four-wheel-drive vehicles can skid, spin out or roll over.
5. Turn on your headlights, even during the day. Your lights will help other motorists see your vehicle. Be sure to keep your lights clear of snow, ice and salt spray.
6. Keep your cool. Although winter driving can be very stressful, panic can cause drivers to overcorrect or take abrupt actions that could actually cause a car crash.
7. Plan your route carefully in advance. If you are travelling through an isolated area, be aware that this is risky as there are fewer vehicles, it takes longer to get help and road conditions may be worse. There is also the risk of no service for cell phones. Use more heavily travelled routes when possible.
8. If you have a breakdown or accident and need to stay warm, clear the area around the tail pipe before you turn on the engine and heater while stopped. This is urgent, as you could become a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning and die if this toxic substance enters your vehicle.
9. Never drink and drive – at any time of year.

You may be a seasoned winter weather driver, but others on the road may not be as experienced and safe as you. These other drivers could put you and your loved ones in danger. If you have been involved in a crash that was caused by another driver’s negligence, be sure to get legal help from a qualified personal injury attorney.

Sources:

• Road & Track – A pro trucker’s guide to winter driving
• Consumer Reports – Don’t lose your grip in wet weather
• OSHA – Safe Winter Driving