Winter Weather Driving Tips!

By - admin on October 25, 2017 in Automotive Tips

Winter weather throughout California and Nevada can bring about rain, fog and snow. Be sure to follow these simple winter weather safety tips as outlined by the California and Nevada Highway Patrol.

Rain

• The first 10 minutes after the rain begins can be the most dangerous because the rain mixes with oil from motor vehicles and oil from new asphalt resulting in a slippery roadway.
• If you start to hydroplane, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until you gain control.
• Drive with headlights on.
• Apply brakes more slowly.
• Leave extra distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.

Fog

• Drive with lights on low beam.
• Watch for CHP pace vehicles to guide you through fog.
• Avoid crossing traffic lanes.
• Do not stop on highways except in emergencies.
• Move away from stalled or disabled vehicle.

Snow

• Carry chains in snow conditions, even if vehicle has four-wheel drive.
• Observe speed limit in chain control areas.
• Check owner’s manual for operating tips on your vehicle’s braking system.
• Watch for paddle-shaped markers. They show the edge of the road.
• Studded pneumatic tires may only be used between Nov. 1 and April 31 unless studs are retracted.
• Stay with your vehicle if it breaks down.

Snowplow Safety

• Use caution when following, passing or approaching snow removal equipment
• Drive a safe distance behind snowplows. Plows often travel slower than other vehicles to remove snow, apply sand and liquid anti-icers and assist stranded vehicles
• Before attempting to pass snow removal equipment, check direction of snow discharge to avoid snow and debris thrown from equipment. Remember that plows are wider than most vehicles and portions of the plow and blade may be obscured by blowing snow
• Don’t crowd the plow.
• Only pass snow removal vehicles when a safe, legal passing area is available and adequately clear of snow and/or treated with salt and sand
• Don’t travel beside a snowplow. They can shift sideways after hitting snow packs or drifts
• When a plow approaches you, allow the plow room to operate by reducing speed and moving to the right side of the road if there is room to safely do so
• Do not brake with unnecessary sudden movements when in front of a snowplow – plows cannot stop as quickly as an automobile
• Don’t drive through white out conditions caused by swirling snow around a snowplow. Safely pull to the side or slow to allow visibility to improve
• Remember that a snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you

Winter Weather Checklist

• Tires with plenty of tread
• Windshield wipers in good condition
• Washer full of fluid.
• Gas tank full
• Defroster working
• Muffler and exhaust in good condition
• Antifreeze in radiator

What to Carry

• Tire chains / tow strap
• Flashlight
• Spare batteries
• Ice scraper
• Cell phone for emergency communication (do not use while driving)
• Snow shovel
• Flares
• Jumper cables
• Small bag of sand for wheel traction
• Extra winter clothes / coat / gloves / socks
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Non-perishable foods / water
• First aid supplies / prescription medication
• Battery-operated radio
• Candles / matches or lighter
• State map for navigation in event of winter detour

Be sure to share these helpful tips with your family and friends. For more helpful advice or information about our automotive refinishing products, contact a Martin Auto Color location near you!