Winter Driving Tips  Last updated 2/27/2008
Source http://www.dot.state.oh.us/ice+snow/

Knowledge — Before leaving home, find out about the driving conditions by logging on to www.BuckeyeTraffic.org. Safe drivers know the weather, and their limits. If the weather is bad, remember, Ice and Snow…Take it Slow, or just don't go.

Inspect —Check your vehicle’s tires, wiper blades, fluids, lights, belts, and hoses. A breakdown is bad on a good day and dangerous on a bad-weather day.

Emergency Kit Supplies — Have an emergency winter kit in your car if you get stuck. A shovel, sand or ice melt, gloves, heavy winter clothing, bottled water, food, candles, lighter and a blanket are just some of the items you will want to have with you. If you have a cellular phone carry it with you to use if you get stuck or need help. A citizens band radio can be used as well to contact your whereabouts.

Tires — Make sure that your tires have good tread and the air in the tires are properly inflated to the correct pressure. If using studs or chains call your local police department on when you can place them on your vehicle. Some cities and states have laws pertaining to the times that you can use them.

Vision — Be aware of what’s going on well ahead of you. Actions by other vehicles will alert you to problems more quickly, and give you that split-second of extra time to react safely. Stay attentive and reduce speed. Know what’s going on around you.

Clear —Remove any snow on your vehicle’s windows, lights, brake lights and signals. Make sure you can see and be seen.  Clear off the entire car, not just a peephole in the windshield which is illegal. All windows should be cleared, along with your headlights, tail lights and outside mirrors.

Control — When driving on ice and snow, do not use cruise control and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers. When merging into traffic, take it slow. Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to slide. Do everything slowly. Accelerate slowly, turn slowly and brake slowly. Leave plenty of distance between cars. Plan on leaving earlier to work, shopping, business meetings, etc.

Brake — Brake early, brake slowly, brake correctly, and never slam on the brakes. If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal. Either way, give yourself plenty of room to stop.

First snow or ice — Drivers aren’t prepared for winter driving and forget to take it slow. Remember to drive well below the posted speed limit and leave plenty of room between cars. Give snowplows room to work. The plows are wide and can cross the centerline or shoulder. Don’t tailgate and try not to pass. If you must pass, take extreme caution and beware of the snow cloud.

Black ice — Roads that seem dry may actually be slippery — and dangerous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady areas — all are hot spots for black ice. Remember, Ice and Snow…Take it Slow.