Driving in Winter Weather Conditions — Are You Prepared?

By Sean Thompson

While winter is well underway, February is usually when we see the most ice, snow, and freezing temperatures. Some of you may remember the “Snowmageddon of 2014,” which crippled metro Atlanta roadways. Many people were not prepared.

So, what can you do to be ready in case we have another “snowpocalypse?” Preparation is key to ensuring both you and your vehicle are ready for the cold weather or potentially dangerous driving conditions.

According to the Department of Transportation, 22% of all vehicle crashes in the U.S. and 16% of roadway fatalities are due to severe weather. During a storm event, you should only drive if absolutely necessary. Inform others of your schedule and try not to travel alone. Avoid backroads or shortcuts because they are usually less traveled and the last to receive road treatment.

Before driving in cold weather, top off your vehicle’s antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, gas, and oil. Check your tire tread and consider snow tires if you live in an area with frequent cold weather events. Keep a bag of salt or sand in the trunk for extra traction and to melt ice if necessary. You should also have a snow shovel, broom, ice scraper, jumper cables, two flashlights with extra batteries, and a warning device such as a road flare or emergency marker.

You should have an emergency kit and a first aid kit in your vehicle year-round, but it is especially important during the winter. Put a blanket or sleeping bag, two pairs of gloves, thermal pants and long sleeve shirt, two pairs of socks, boots, an extra waterproof jacket, and a winter hat in your trunk. Nonperishable high protein food and water are important in case you are stuck. It’s also a good idea to have a portable phone charger.

If you must drive in inclement cold weather, remember to treat inoperable traffic signals as a four-way stop. Do not use cruise control, do not make abrupt maneuvers, and do not go around barricades or “road closed” signs. Remember to slow down and watch for slick or snow-covered surfaces. Be especially careful on bridges, which ice over more quickly than the rest of the roadway.

Lastly, if you are in a winter emergency and find yourself stopped or stalled on the roadway, stay with your vehicle. If you can, call 911 and turn on your hazard lights. Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes every hour. Clear any snow from the exhaust pipe to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Move around to maintain heat.

If you want to learn more about cold weather driving and preparedness, check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) online at NHTSA.gov/winter-driving-tips.