Driving in the winter months can bring about unique challenges that threaten the safety of your travels. Here are some simple ways to keep yourself and others safe while on the road this winter season.
- Keep your speed in check – You are more likely to hydroplane while driving at faster speeds.
- Buckle up – In the case of an accident, you may just save your life or the life of another by buckling your seat belt!
- Watch for blind spots on other vehicles – Trucks have larger blind spots than typical vehicles. Be aware of this and try to pass them on the left because they have more visibility on that side. If you are a truck driver, remember to check twice before switching lanes!
- Give extra room to trucks – A fully loaded truck will take the length of a football field (including BOTH end zones) to completely stop. Make sure you take this into account before cutting in front of one or stopping suddenly.
- Watch for traffic – Even if the speed limit is higher than surrounding vehicles are driving, don’t speed by too quickly – your chances of crashing nearly triples when doing so.
- Clear any snow or ice from your vehicle – Snow on the top of your vehicle can create unnecessary hazards for those behind you, and can add extra blind spots to your visibility.
- Leave early – The later you leave, the more likely you are to speed or take unnecessary driving risks to arrive at your destination in time. Give yourself extra time to relax and drive with traffic.
- Keep your vehicle’s maintenance up to date: Wipers, fluids, radiators, and other simple checks can be the difference between making it to your destination or being stranded on the side of the road in the cold weather. Be proactive and check often!
Thanks for reading!
