Winter is almost over but if people can learn anything from the past it is that winter always has surprise in store for us when people let their guard down. To help improve driving safety through winter's end, it is time to relook safe driving under hazardous road conditions.
Accidents involving skidding or bad weather conditions are preventable. Bad weather does not cause accidents. Weather conditions create driving hazards. It is up to the driver to know how to deal with them. Drivers are responsible for keeping their vehicle under control, no matter what the road or weather.
Here are some reminders of how to drive safely in winter conditions:
• Before starting out, clear the entire windshield and all windows and mirrors. Drivers need to be able to see as much as possible around them to avoid collisions.
• Keep brake and signal lights clear of ice and snow.
• Keep eyes moving to be aware of the traffic situation all around. Do not just concentrate on what is right in front. Scan the distance and glance frequently at mirrors. If the driver receives information too late they will have to make a sudden move; watch and anticipate hazards.
• Double the following distance at least between the car and the vehicle ahead of them. Maintain as much free space around the vehicle as possible. Keep the sides and rear of the vehicle as clear of other vehicles as possible.
• Maintain communication with other drivers to make sure both parties see and understand one another's intentions. Use lights, horn and even eye contact to communicate.
• Adjust speed to road conditions. Allow more travel time.
• Pay attention constantly to the road conditions, which can vary even from one lane to the next.
• Build up speed gradually before traveling uphill. Shift down smoothly, possibly before start up. When reaching the top, be ready for unseen hazards such as a sudden downhill grade or a stalled vehicle.
• Use lower gears instead of brakes to travel down a steep hill.
• Avoid sudden steering movements. Be ready to steer smoothly when approaching a curve. Plan any lane changes well ahead of time.
• On icy roads, any driving maneuver can set off a skid. Braking, steering, accelerating and taking foot off the accelerator can all result in a loss of control. Carry out these moves with a light touch, being continually aware of the vehicle's response.
• Brake correctly for the type of vehicle being driven. For some braking systems, a quick, light pumping of the brakes is the way to stop on ice while maintaining steering control. Avoid locking the brakes. If there are air brakes, keep an eye on the air pressure. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) should not be pumped. Check with the manufacturer for the correct operation of your braking system.
• Keep all wheels moving to maintain control of the vehicle? Locked wheels can result in a jackknife.
• Carry a winter survival kit, especially on long trips or in isolated areas. Include matches and a candle, a parka and sleeping bag or emergency blanket, food, first aid kit, jumper cables with safety goggles, gasoline antifreeze, fuel conditioner for diesel fuel, wrenches for minor repairs, a spare fan belt and radiator hose, spare spark plugs and spark plug wire.
Strive to maintain traction at all times. There needs to be positive contact with the road surface to control the direction and speed of travel. Drive moderately and gently. Avoid sudden braking, accelerating or turning.
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