Winter weather has arrived once again, and with it the usual dangers that accompany cold temperatures and frozen precipitation on our roads.
One would think folks around here would be used to this by now, but experience tells us that people need reminders.
It starts with making sure your vehicle is ready for the weather. PennDOT advises motorists to make sure fluid levels are full, wipers are in good working order and the heater and defroster are working properly. Check to be sure tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Those who don’t use snow tires should make sure their all-weather tires should be mud and snow rated.
Even a small amount of snow or ice can cause major problems on the road. And remember that there are limits to the accuracy of weather forecasts when it comes to winter storms. If any frozen precipitation is in the forecast, be prepared for the worst if you must travel.
Exercise particular caution on limited-access highways such as interstates. We can all learn a lesson from the nightmare that played out recently on Interstate 95 in Virginia. Unexpectedly heavy snow caused accidents that left many motorists stranded on the highway for the better part of a day or even longer. Something similar played out in our area on Interstate 78 in 2007.
We urge motorists to always carry emergency supplies, including bottled water, nonperishable food, extra warm clothing and blankets. Make sure your car has a good supply of gasoline before getting on the road. Other key supplies include a flashlight and batteries, battery-operated radio, jumper cables, cellphone and charger, a snow shovel and an ice scraper. Also be sure to have anything you may need to accommodate those traveling with you (special medication, baby supplies, pet food, etc.)
Here are some other winter driving tips from PennDOT:
• Slow down and increase following distance.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts.
• Beware of roads that look wet but are actually frozen.
• Use extra caution on bridges and ramps, where ice can form without warning.
• Do not use cruise control on snow-covered roads.
• Turn on your headlights when your wipers are on.
• Use your low beams in particularly bad weather, especially in cases of heavy or blowing snow.
• Remove ice and snow from windows, mirrors, and all vehicle lights before you drive and as often as needed.
• Remove snow and ice from the hood and roof of your vehicle. If snow or ice from your vehicle strikes a vehicle or person and causes death or injury, you can be ticketed.
• Do not park or abandon your vehicle on snow emergency routes.
• Do not pass or get between trucks in a plow line (several trucks plowing side by side).
• Make sure someone else knows where you are going and when you expect to arrive. In case you run into an emergency and need help, someone will know where to look for you.
• If you do become stranded, it’s better to stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Run the engine every hour or so, but make sure the tailpipe is clear and keep the downwind window cracked open.
• Do not drink and drive, and always wear your seat belt.
We’re sure people will say that much of this advice is simple common sense. But anyone who has spent time on our roads this time of year knows that this sort of common sense isn’t as common as we would like it to be.
Most of it comes down to some basic concepts. To reiterate, avoid travel in wintry weather if at all possible. If you have to drive when roads are dangerous, take your time and show patience with other drivers. And be prepared for emergencies.
No one, no matter how skilled they are at driving or what vehicle they use, is impervious to the dangers of winter driving. Take the steps necessary to keep yourself and fellow motorists safe.
Source: Berkshire mont
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