Winter driving hazards

Published 8:17 am Friday, January 3, 2020

With the holidays over, we enter January and what is usually the most better part of the winter. And, with that, will come icy roads, and likely snow.

We would like to remind readers to take caution in the coming weeks. Here are some winter driving tips, from the American Automobile Association

• Drive slower. Always adjust your vehicle’s speed to account for the lower traction when driving on snow or ice.

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• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Apply gas slowly, to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry.  Take time to slow down for a stoplight, as it takes longer to slow down on icy roads.

• Increase your following distance” An increased margin of safety of five or six seconds will provide what is needed if you have to stop.

• Don’t power up hills. Using extra gas on snow-covered roads will just make your wheels spin. It is best to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let it carry you to the top. After reaching the crest, reduce speed and proceed downhill slowly.

• If you get stuck in the snow, stay with your vehicle: It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. Do not try to walk in a severe storm.