With winter in full swing, night driving can be extremely dangerous in treacherous weather. Check out these simple safety tips for safe winter driving at night:
• Slow down gradually and drive at a speed that suits the conditions – take it slower than normal.
• Make sure the full lighting system on your vehicle is turned on.
• Use your low-beam headlights in bad weather. High beams reflect off the moisture droplets in the flow, making it harder to see.
• Use fog lights if you have them on your vehicle, in addition to your low beams.
• Be patient. Avoid passing other cars. Especially never pass snow plows or sand trucks.
• Keep your distance. In poor winter weather, you will need more distance to brake safely.
• Look and listen for hazards ahead.
• Reduce all distractions in your vehicle! Turn the radio off, put your phone on silent, keep the kids as calm as possible.
• Look as far ahead as possible.
• Be aware of deer and other animals that may jump out onto the road unexpectedly.
• Keep windows and mirrors clean – always keep extra windshield washer fluid in your trunk.
• Keep an emergency kit handy with flares, towels, water, jumper cables, etc.
• If fog and other inclement weather is too much to handle, pull over immediately and wait it out at a hotel or take a break in a rest area.
Safe travels this winter!
Source: MTO.gov
