Winter Road Safety

Oh, the weather outside is frightful, and the roads are not delightful.

Snow and ice can make local roads a nightmare to navigate, but Cameron is here to help you stay safe with some winter road tips!  

Before Driving

Be prepared: Check the weather ahead of time to see what the road conditions will be like so you can prepare. Bear in mind that you won’t be able to get to your destination as quickly as you can in the warmer months, so allow plenty of time to get to and from your destination. It is much safer to be late than to speed and risk harm to yourself or others.

Warm up your vehicle: Though it makes for a more comfortable start to your commute, make sure your car isn’t running in an enclosed area, such as a garage. This can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. If your car is outside, try to remove snow and ice from the windows, mirrors, cameras and sensors to ensure proper navigation of the vehicle.  

While Driving

Mind your speed and braking: While driving in dangerous conditions, be prepared to travel under the speed limit. Note that it takes longer to slow down on snow and ice. Also be aware that the faster you go the longer it takes to stop, so try to brake early and slowly. Slamming on the brakes can cause your car to slide on the ice.

Remain mindful while merging: While merging into traffic, try to do so at a slower pace. Quick movements can cause your car to slide on ice.

Watch for black ice: Keep an eye out for black ice, which is a transparent ice coating on roads or paved surfaces. Black ice is often found on off-ramps, intersections, bridges and shaded areas.

Maintain a safe distance: When the road conditions are bad, it is important to increase your following distance. The cars’ actions in front of you will give an indication of what conditions are like ahead of you.

Keep an eye out for snowplows: To clear roads, snowplows often travel below the speed limit. Please be patient when traveling behind one and avoid passing. The drivers often can’t see you, so keep that in mind when navigating near one.

Other Tips to Be Aware Of

Check your tires: Check that the tire tread is at least 6/32 of an inch to assist in snowy conditions. If your tire treads are lower than this, you should consider replacing your tires. Also check to make sure the tire pressure is between 28 and 36 pounds per square inch. Cold weather can make tires go flat quicker.

Replace your wipers: Check your car’s wiper blades and change them if necessary. Also, make sure to use wiper fluid rated for 30 degrees below zero.

Watch your fuel level: Try to keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid a gas line freezing.

As we dive deeper into the winter months, keep these tips in mind when navigating precarious roads. Cameron wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful, safe holiday season.