Tips for Winter Driving

Winter in New England can be a beautiful time of year, unfortunately it also can be the most dangerous when it comes to driving. We have put together some tips to help you stay safe and minimize the potential hazards posed by cold weather, winter storms and icy roads.

Prepare for winter driving before a storm hits:

Have a mechanic check your car's battery, brakes, fluid levels (antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil), as well as the heating and exhaust systems to ensure that your car is in good, safe working condition.
Try to keep your gas tank full during the winter months. Don't allow the gas to go below half a tank. Not only will this prevent damage from freezing, you'll avoid running out of gas if you're stuck in a traffic jam during the dead of winter.
Install snow tires or all-weather radials with adequate treads.
Check your windshield washing fluid. We all know how hard it can be to see out of windshield that is covered in snow and salt.
Prepare for an emergency. Keep flares, a sack of sand for traction, small shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit, booster cables and a flashlight with extra batteries in your trunk.

When driving under adverse winter conditions:

Take care pulling out of streets blocked by high snow banks. It's often difficult to see who or what is coming.
Back your car into the driveway so you have better vision when pulling out.
Be aware of people walking or jogging on the street. Often sidewalks are impassable people venture onto the street for a clearer path. The roads can be narrower due to excess snow.
Don't turn corners too tightly. Someone might be pulling out of driveway with no visibility.
If your car does not have anti-lock brakes and you start skidding on the ice, try not to slam on your brakes. Gently pump your brakes to maintain better control and prevent your wheels from locking.
If your car does have anti-lock brakes, slam on your brakes when skidding on the ice. Pumping your breaks prevents the anti-lock system from taking over.

Traveling during a severe storm:

Travel only if necessary during a blizzard or severe storm. If you must travel.
Don't travel alone. Notify someone of your estimated time of arrival as well as your primary and alternate travel routes.
If you do venture out do not forget your cell phone. Pay phone are becoming harder to find.
If stuck, stay in the car and wait for help. Run the engine and heater sparingly. Also make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow and ventilate your car so that carbon monoxide fumes won't poison you.