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How Can I Drive Safely on Snowy Roads in Wisconsin this Winter?
By Product Expert | Posted in Safety, Tips and Info on Wednesday, November 7th, 2018 at 11:53 pm
Wisconsin Winter Driving Safety Tips for Snowy & Icey Roads
If it seems like winter started a bit early this year you are not alone. Somehow winter started right after summer left us. It is not uncommon for Mother Nature to skip a season here in Wisconsin but I believe we can all agree that we wish it would’ve been winter this time. Better luck next year maybe. But, with that being said it is time to start thinking about driving on Wisconsin’s wintery roadways. Snow and ice make travel in our state uniquely difficult but not impossible and by following our winter driving safety tips below you can be sure to arrive at your destination safe and sound.
4 Winter Driving Safety Tips
Snow = Slow
This one I am sure most every Wisconsin resident has heard on more than one occasion but it is sound advice. When snow is falling or is covering the roadway you need to slow down and even possibly drive slower than the posted speed limit for safety. Give yourself extra distance to stop and remember to decelerate and accelerate slowly to maintain a proper grip on the road.
Know Your Vehicle
Winter brings with it its own set of driving challenges and those challenges require your car to be winter ready. Tire tread depth, brake wear, and even your windshield wipers should be checked regularly to avoid finding faulty equipment in the middle of a blizzard. It is also a good idea to have your battery tested and your anti-freeze levels checked to ensure that they will keep your car running in the cold Wisconsin winter.
Remove Snow & Ice from Windows
You wouldn’t drive with your eyes half shut, so why do you think it would be alright to only scrape off a tiny section of snow and ice from your vehicles front, side, and rear windows? Driving with an obstructed view is dangerous no matter the season but it is much more prevalent during winter. Take the time to completely remove snow and ice from your vehicle so you can see clearly without trying to peer through the sliver of the windshield that has been defrosted.
Be Prepared if a Breakdown Occurs
No matter how safely you drive there is always a chance for an accident or a breakdown during the winter months and that is why it is important to be prepared for when it happens. Keep an extra blanket or two, sand or kitty litter, road flares, and a flashlight in the trunk of your just in case an accident or breakdown occurs. Blankets to stay warm in case the car isn’t running, sand and kitty litter can help get the car unstuck by providing additional traction, the flashlight helps you see, and road flares keep you safe from oncoming traffic.
