Safe Winter Driving Tips

• Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving.
• Pay attention. Don't try to out-drive the conditions. Remember, the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
• Watch for slippery bridge decks, even when the rest of the pavement is in good condition. Bridge decks will ice up sooner than the adjacent pavement.
• Don't use your cruise control in wintry conditions. Even roads that appear clear can have sudden slippery spots and the short touch of your brakes to deactivate the cruise control feature can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Don't get over confident in your 4x4 vehicle. Remember that your four-wheel drive vehicle may help you get going quicker than other vehicles, but it won't help you stop any faster. Many 4x4 vehicles are heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. Don't get over confident with your 4x4 vehicle's traction. Your 4x4 can lose traction as quickly as a two-wheel drive vehicle.
• Don't pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump brakes in attempting to stop. The correct way is to "stomp and steer".
• Look farther ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by cars and trucks will alert you quicker to problems and give you that split-second extra time to safely react.
• Remember that trucks are heavier than cars. Trucks take longer to safely respond and come to a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.
• Go slow! Drive according to conditions.
• Leave plenty of room for stopping.
• Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows - stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the right.