Ohio’s winter weather is just getting started. While most of the state has seen a sprinkling of snow already, you can expect the white stuff to really start coming down over the next month. It will probably keep on falling from now until spring.
What’s the number one thing you can do to stay safe when the roads are covered in ice and snow? Stay home. If you don’t have to go out, hunker down. If you can put off your trip to the store, do it. If you can work remotely or make use of flex-time to stay off the roads until they are clear, that’s definitely best.
What if that just isn’t possible? Well, then it’s time to brush up on your winter driving skills.
Tips for driving in winter weather
First, give yourself more than the usual time to get to your destination. Far too many drivers make mistakes simply because they are rushed. If you give yourself more travel time, you won’t be tempted to take chances.
Then, follow these winter driving tips when the roads are slick from snow and/or ice:
- Slow down: This gives you more time to react to the road conditions and will help increase the traction your tires can get on the road.
- Leave space: There should be about five or six seconds worth of space between you and the vehicle in front of you in bad weather. That gives you more reaction time if they stop suddenly.
- Try to avoid stops: If you can slow down enough to avoid getting to a traffic light when it’s red (without endangering yourself or anyone else), that can help you avoid the potential of a spinout.
- Pay attention: This is not the time to get distracted. Turn off the radio, put your phone away, sit the coffee down and focus only on the road and your driving.
Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are on the roads, there will always be drivers out there who aren’t willing to do the same. If you’re injured in a wreck with a negligent driver, find out more about your right to compensation for your losses.
