With the holidays right around the corner and winter driving conditions not far behind, now is a good time to review a few winter driving tips to stay safe behind the wheel when Minnesota’s roads turn snowy and icy.
1. Clean Your Car Off – Before driving off in winter weather, brush off snow and scrape off ice that has accumulated on your car. Take a few minutes to fully defrost the windows before driving.
2. Check the Washer Fluid Level and Condition of the Windshield Wipers – Replace wipers if they are not effectively keeping the windshield clean. Remember to also check the rear wiper and washer fluid reservoir.
3. Always Buckle-up – Ensure that children are in the back seat strapped in to a size-appropriate car or booster seat.
4. Slow Down. Remember that stopping distances will be much longer on snow packed roads. Having all-wheel-drive will not help you stop any faster. Be aware that other drivers will have reduced stopping distance too, and may slide into the intersection when the light is green.
5. Give Snow Plows Plenty of Room. Remember that snow plows will make wide turns, stop often, overlap lanes, and exit the road frequently. Always assume that plow drivers cannot see you and pass with caution only when it’s safe to do so.
6. Don’t Get Distracted
Winter driving requires coordination, fast reaction times and focus. Put your phone on “do not disturb” mode and never drive while impaired by alcohol or drugs.