KANSAS CITY, Mo – It’s winter, and that means two things: You’re already going to be sick of Christmas music by Thanksgiving, and it’s time to think about driving a little safer.
Roads covered with snow are obviously a hassle, but ice, sleet, and even freezing rain can make every drive more dangerous.
Before you embark on a longer trip, check over things like tire tread and pressure, brakes, and windshield wipers and fluid.
If you have to drive in snowy or icy conditions, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times, to keep your gas line from freezing, and don’t use your emergency brake in cold, rainy, or snowy weather. If your car has cruise control, never use it when you’re driving on any slippery surface. (That includes rain, and even sand.)
Accelerate and decelerate slowly. If you start to skid or lose traction, applying the gas gradually is the best remedy.
You should stay at least eight to end seconds behind any cars you’re following, instead of the usual recommended four. This will give you more distance if you have to stop suddenly on the slick roads. But AAA says don’t stop if you don’t have to. Let the car keep rolling if possible. It’s much easier to get going again without losing traction if you’re already moving.(If you do have to stop, AAA says “threshold” braking is the best method. Keep your heel on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.)
When you’re heading up a hill, take it easy. Don’t power down on the gas pedal, or you’re going to lose traction and end up either going nowhere or, worse, sliding back down. Once you’ve got inertia, no matter how little, just keep going. Let the inertia carry you over the top, and then reduce your speed and head down the hill as slowly as possible.
With enough vigilance and caution, you'll arrive at your destination safely--and in plenty of time for turkey.
