• 09
  • December
    2011

As the month of December gets underway it's time for Colorado drivers to prepare for colder weather and more hazardous road conditions. By planning ahead and taking appropriate safety measures, drivers can decrease the chances they will be involved in a Colorado winter driving accident.

Although many Colorado drivers are experienced driving in the conditions of snow and ice, it never fails that the first major snowstorm causes a number of traffic delays and auto accidents. Since that first big storm may be just around the corner, now is a good time to provide a refresher of helpful winter driving precautions.

Tips for Winter Driving

  • Perform necessary maintenance: Make sure your tires have adequate tread, your battery is in good condition, fill up windshield-washer fluid and put ice scrapers and brushes in your vehicle.
  • Prepare for driving: Of course it is always best to avoid driving in hazardous winter conditions if you are able, but if you do need to drive thoroughly clear off any snow and ice from your vehicle. Clear off snow from the entire car (not only the windows); blowing snow can interfere with your visibility as well as that of other drivers.
  • Slow down: This is one of the easiest and perhaps the most important step any driver can take when driving in snowy or icy conditions.
  • Leave space between your vehicle and the next: Experts suggest increasing to a 12-second following distance (from the normally recommended 3 second distance) to provide adequate time to stop in slippery conditions.
  • What if you slide?: Although it may be instinctive to slam on the brakes, generally that will cause further sliding and loss of control. Usually it is best to keep your feet off both the brake and accelerator, and focus on steering the car in a safe direction.
  • What if you get stuck?: If your vehicle slides off the road and becomes stuck in the snow generally it is best to stay put inside the vehicle, and call or wait for help. Exposing yourself to the snow and cold may be fatal.

Drivers can also call the CDOT hotline at 511 for road conditions and road closures.

By taking appropriate precautions and exercising patience, Colorado drivers can help to prevent winter driving accidents and make the roads safer for everyone.

Source: Colorado Springs Gazette, Simple tips for safe driving on snow and ice, R. Scott Rappold, 5 December 2011