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Winter driving is often the most difficult due to blowing snow, icy slick
spots and fewer daylight hours. When you are on the road:
- Buckle your seat
belts!
- Be prepared to turn
back and seek shelter if conditions become threatening.
- In fog, drive with
your headlights set on dim, or use fog lights. If the fog is too dense,
pull off the roadway and stop. Do not drive at five or ten miles per
hour.
- In rain, fog, snow, or
sleet, do not overdrive your headlights. Stay within the limits of your
vision.
- Keep your windows
clear of snow and ice. Do not start until your windshield is defrosted.
- Drive slower and
increase your following distance. Your speed should be adjusted for the
conditions and match the flow of traffic.
- Roadway conditions may
vary depending on the sun, shade, or roadway surface. Watch for slick
spots especially under bridges, on overpasses and in shaded spots. Be prepared
to react physically and mentally.
- If the pavement is
snow or ice covered, start slowly and brake gently. Begin braking early
when you come to an intersection. If you start to slide, ease off the
gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you feel
you have regained traction then straighten your vehicle.
- When a snow plow is
coming towards you, allow plenty of room for the plow to pass. When the
center line is being cleared and salted the plow tip may be on or over
the line. Snow plows are big, heavy pieces of equipment. So play it
safe, give them room to pass.
- When you approach a
snow plow from behind, pass with care and only when you can see the road
ahead of the plow. You should not try to pass in blowing snow, there may
be a vehicle in that cloud of snow. Allow more distance between you and
the plow, they may be spreading salt.
- Be alert when you
approach a cloud of snow which covers the road, especially on passing
lanes of interstates or freeways. A snow plow may be at work clearing
the lane or preparing to turn around.
- Be careful after a
minor rear end accident. If you are bumped from behind and you do not
feel comfortable exiting your vehicle, motion the other driver and drive
to the nearest police station, 24-hour store, service station, hospital,
or fire station.
For additional winter preparedness information contact the nearest office
of the National Weather Service, local American Red Cross Chapter, local
emergency services office, or the Virginia Department of Emergency Management
at 10501 Trade Court, Richmond, Virginia 23236.
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