Winter Driving Tips

Many people don't enjoy winter.  Nearly everyone dislikes winter driving.  Erie Insurance group has collected a variety of tips on being prepared for the snow, ice, and slush:

• Tires - Your car should have all season or winter tread tires on the drive axle.

• Wipers - Replace windshield wiper blades if they smear or don't completely clear the window.

• Under the Hood - Have a qualified mechanic check the condition of your battery, cables, radiator hoses or belts.

• Headlights - Always keep your headlights and taillights clear of snow, and completely clear snow from the windows.

• Carry a Spare - Have the air pressure checked regularly in your spare tire.

• Road Conditions - Freezing  road surfaces can be extremely dangerous.  In many places the road can be dry, however, bridges and overpasses often freeze with the slightest amount of moisture.

• Stopping - Begin coming to a stop sooner than usual and, if you don't have antilock brakes, gently pump the break pedal for increased control.  This will keep your wheels from locking.  If you do have antilocks, apply firm continuous pressure to the break pedal.

• Starting - Use light foot pressure on the gas pedal when accelerating from a stop.  This will give your vehicle much better traction and make it easier to get the car moving on ice and snow.

• Hills - When approaching hills, try to gather momentum slowly.  Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle your following so you don't have to slow or stop on a hill.   When you reach the top try to slow the vehicle so you maintain a constant seed as you go down the other side.

• Stuck - If you get stuck, a 25 pound bag of sand, salt or kitty litter will do the trick.  Keep a bag in the car.  Spread the material on the ground around the tires for added traction.  You can also use a shovel to clear a path.  Remember, spinning your tires only digs you in deeper.  It's best to gently rock your car back and forth, keeping the wheels pointed straight ahead.

• Stranded - If the worst happens and you find yourself stranded with help possibly hours away, follow these guidelines:

  • Don't leave your car.

  • Use flares or hang a bright colored cloth from your antenna to attract attention.

  • Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour, depending on the amount o gas in your tank.

  • To protect your self from frostbite and hypothermia, use woolen items, newspapers or paper bags to keep warm.

  • Keep at least one window slightly open, so the heavy ice or snow can't seal the car shut.

  • Eat hard candy.

  • Don't panic!
     

• Slow and Steady - is the best way to get where you are going during inclement weather.  Take curves at a crawl.  Don't do anything too fast.  Use gentle pressure on the brakes and accelerator and turning the steering wheel gradually.