TIPS FOR DRIVING ON SNOW AND ICE

• Decrease your speed.

• Increase distance between car in front of you.

• Maintain visibility. – Clean all windows and hood of snow and ice.

Safety experts say the first two recommendations are essential because it is impossible to know what's beneath a layer of snow until you apply your brakes. Also, black ice sometimes appears as if it is merely a wet surface.

Clear snow, ice and slush from all surfaces of your car, including the windshield, windows, mirrors and body before driving. Sheets of snow on your hood or roof can peel off while driving and obscure your vision or that of the driver behind you. A film of dried slush on your headlights can dim them.

WHEN BRAKING ON SNOW OR ICE:
* with Anti-lock brakes: press firmly on the brake pedal, and hold it there;
   the pedal may pulsate, which is normal with ABS.
* without ABS: gently pump the brake, so the wheels don't lock.

Don't let four-wheel drive give you a false sense of security. Four-wheel drive won't effect how quickly you stop or turn.

If you get stuck where there is no help, find a way to give the tires traction -- even using floor mats from the car.

If you're going on a long journey, tell someone the route.

Always keep at least a quarter-tank of gas in the vehicle, so if you get stuck you can intermittently turn the car on for heat.

Remember, the key to driving in snow or ice is "slowly, gradually and smoothly."

 

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Wayne's Garage
27 E 27th in Eugene, Oregon
333 Q Street in Springfield, Oregon