As morning temperatures continue to drop, bear in mind you may encounter icy roads on your commute. Keep these safe driving tips in mind next time you get behind the wheel.
- Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids.
- Keep your distance. The normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.
- Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning.
- Buckle up — no matter what. Before driving, make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up — no matter how short the drive is.
- Plan ahead. Always have a designated driver to ensure everyone makes it home safely.
- Have emergency supplies handy. Be prepared for winter weather by having an emergency kit in your vehicle.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are some of the busiest travel weeks of the year. AAA estimated 51 million people traveled over 50 miles this past Thanksgiving. As you and your family set out to travel for the holidays, be sure to follow these safety precautions.