The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all – if you can avoid it.
OPP Constable Mark Cloes reported shortly after the recent snowfall that people should avoid going out until the snowplow or sand trucks have had a chance to do their work. Always allow extra time to reach a destination.
For those who must drive in snowy conditions, the county OPP remind drivers of some winter driving tips about handling adverse road conditions.
Drive safely on icy roads
Reduce the speed and leave plenty of room to stop. Allow at least three times more space than usual between your vehicle and the car in front.
Brake gently to avoid skidding. If the wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
Keep the lights on to increase visibility with other drivers.
Keep your lights and windshield clean.
Do not use cruise control in winter weather, especially on icy roads. Be careful on bridges, overpasses, and less traveled roads; those will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, drivers might encounter ice in shady areas or exposed roadways, like bridges.
Do not assume a vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can get into trouble on winter roads.
If your tires skid…
Take your foot off the accelerator or brake (whatever you are doing to cause the skid).
Steer in the direction you want the car to go.
If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse – that is normal.
If you are sliding while trying to stop, shift the gear selector to neutral while braking.
If you’re stuck…
Try not to spin the wheels. That will only dig you in deeper. Use a light touch on the gas, to ease the car out. Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside.
Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel, or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.
