Eight safety reminders for winter driving

The huge East Coast storm last week serves as a reminder that plenty of bad weather may still be ahead this winter. Severe weather can be challenging, even for the most experienced drivers. So, if you are heading out into nasty winter conditions, then we have some solid advice for you. Take heed from these tips from the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Do a pre-check
Check vital vehicle components before your trip, advises the NHTSA: lights, wipers, batteries, belts, tires, brakes, washer fluid and other items.

Check tires, too
AAA reminds drivers to make sure tires are properly inflated and to never mix radial tires with other tire types.

Keep your gas tank half full
The idea here, keeping your gas tank at least half full, is to avoid gas-line freeze up, AAA says.

Clear the snow
The NHTSA also counsels motorists to always clean ice and snow from your windows, forward sensors, headlights, taillights and backup camera before moving your car for maximum visibility.

Skip the cruise
Do not use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface—wet, ice, snow or sand—says AAA.

Look and steer where you want to go
Severe weather means sometimes limited visibility and slippery roads. AAA advises to always look and steer where you want to go.

Accelerate and decelerate slowly—and drive slowly
Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best method for regaining traction and avoiding skids, says AAA. Don’t try to get moving in a hurry. And take time to slow down for a stoplight. Additionally, drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered and icy roads.

Stay home
If you really don’t have to go out, don’t tempt fate. If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

For more tips from AAA, click here.