The cold has returned,… winter is clearly not done with us yet! When temperatures fall, the dangers of driving rise. Here are a few tips for driving in snow and ice to help you ride out the rest of this winter in Massachusetts safely.
Preparing Your Vehicle
To make your vehicle safe for driving in snow and ice, there are a few things you should do. First, check your tire pressure. Over-inflated tires will not grip the road well. Secondly, keep your windshield washer fluid tank filled. A clean windshield is critical to safe winter driving. Lastly, make sure your headlights and taillights are cleared of any snow/dirt and that the bulbs are working properly.
Changing Your Driving Technique
Tips for driving in snow and ice wouldn’t be complete without a discussion of how you should change your driving techniques. Low temperatures mean more black ice (at all times of day). Consider reducing your speeds. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. This will give you more time to react to any road hazards. If you need to stop, brake gently to avoid locking your brakes or spinning out. Driving more cautiously will help keep you safe.
Beware of Road Hazards
There is so much to be aware of at this time of year. Black ice, as mentioned earlier, should be at the top of this list. Additionally, beware of potholes. They are getting bigger and deeper at this time of year. During snow storms, avoid getting too close to plow trucks and sanding trucks. Many snow banks may have melted from the warm weather last week, but some of the larger ones remain. Beware of pedestrians walking around from behind those snow banks. Being aware of different winter road hazards will help you avoid potential issues.
