Keeping yourself and others safe on the roadways is important. With our experience in the traffic industry, we’ve seen a lot of accidents happening because of poor winter driving conditions. You’re better able to keep yourself and others safe while on the roads if you’re aware of these tips.

The Key Statistics

According to FHWA over 17% of car accidents occur in snowy conditions. This leads to over 1,800 people dying every year due to the snow and ice. Over 150,000 car accidents occur every year due to icy road conditions. Your car can take up to 10 times longer to stop when the roads are snowy or icy.

Overall, when the roads are icy or snowy, this leads to devastating effects and can cause injury or even death in those who end up in an accident.

Winter Driving Tips

Make sure your vehicle is in the best shape before driving around in the winter months.

• Have it serviced and maintained regularly.
• Check for any recalls and have them repaired – nhtsa.gov/recalls
• Make sure your vehicle is stocked up with emergency supplies.
• Plan out your travel route.
• Fill up your gas tank almost full or full whenever possible.
• Don’t leave if you don’t have to when the weather is really bad.
• Use your best judgment and common sense.

Tires Matter

Your tires are one of the biggest parts of the vehicle that need to be regularly checked. Driving on icy and snowy roads with bald tires that have not been replaced in years is not only dangerous, but it is deadly.

There are guidelines that can be followed regarding tires that are necessary for your vehicle. You can look up tire ratings online, as well.

Seatbelts & Car Seats

Protect yourself and others who are also driving along on the roads. Make sure that everyone is wearing their seatbelts inside your vehicle. Children who are young and small enough should be properly restrained in car seats.

Avoid Risky Driving Behaviors 

It is important that you don’t do things while driving. Do not eat, drink, look at your makeup, use your phone or other risky behaviors that can distract you from driving on the road. You also want to ensure you’re fully rested and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as these can increase your risks of getting into an accident.

Winter driving can be something that we all have to do, but you don’t have to worry about doing so dangerously. Making sure to keep these winter driving tips in mind can help to reduce the chances of getting harmed, or harming others while driving in snowy or icy conditions.