Laurel County Sheriff John Root
Winter Driving – It’s just not normal. Travel conditions can change from mile to mile, minute to minute. When there’s ice and snow, take it slow.
Sheriff Root offers the following suggestions to help motorists to remain safe on icy, and snow covered roads:
Driving in winter requires preparation, because you never know when you may find yourself stranded. Check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, fluids, wiper blades, lights, belts, and hoses to make sure they’re in good shape. Before venturing out onto snowy roadways, make sure you’ve cleared the snow from all the vehicle’s windows and lights, including brake lights and turn signals. Make sure you can see and be seen. And prepare an emergency kit, including things like a blanket, sand or cat litter for extra traction, additional warm caps and gloves, some food and water, and a cell phone. Before you go, check out road and weather conditions to help plan your route and departure time, giving yourself plenty of extra time to get to where you’re going. Above all, know your limits. If the weather’s bad, stay home.
Black ice and slick roads are major contributors to vehicle crashes. However you can avoid a mishap by slowing down and driving according to the conditions of the road. If you see a change in the color of the pavement surface, or if the road surface is wet and all of sudden looks dry — it could be black ice. Sparkling pavement is another sign that ice or frost is on the road. If you encounter these conditions, SLOW DOWN. The best way to deal with ice is to anticipate where you might encounter it, such as along shaded areas and bridges. Don’t let ice and slippery road conditions result in tragedy. Adjust your driving habits, slow down and turn off your cruise control.
Along with slippery streets and highways, huge snowplows are often out there trying to keep the roads clear. Just be aware they may be driving slowly, and watch for snow, and ice being cleared off the roadway.
Winter driving can be a real challenge. If there’s ice and snow, take it slow. Even if you have an SUV with four-wheel drive, it doesn’t mean you’ll be able to stop any faster or maintain control any better once you lose traction. Four-wheel drive may get you going faster, but it won’t help you stop any sooner. No matter what type of vehicle you’re driving, accelerate gradually and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers that could cause you to slide. Allow extra distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
Finally, move over for emergency responders assisting others on the shoulder of the road.
Here’s a Winter Driving Safety Tip:
Ice and snow, take it slow – or don’t go at all! Snow requires more attention and less speed. Remember that speed limits are for pavement that’s clear and dry. If you don’t have to travel, stay home. But if you do have to go out, allow extra time, reduce your speed when visibility is low, be patient and don’t forget to buckle up. And before you leave, check road conditions. Safe drivers know the weather and they know their limits. If the weather’s bad, stay where you are until conditions improve.
The best thing you can do to drive safely in the winter is Slow Down.
