Driving too fast for the weather conditions is the largest cause of traffic crashes during the winter season, according to a BPD ?news release.
To stay safe, drivers should adequately prepare their cars for the wintry conditions and brush up on their winter driving skills.
Stopping and turning in wintry conditions is especially hazardous, and drivers are reminded to brake prior to turning to reduce the likelihood of skidding.
If the car should begin to skid, drivers should apply the brakes and turn the front wheels in the direction they want to travel.
The release also included several vehicle preparedness tips for the approaching ?winter.
Tips include keeping tires at the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and routinely checking tire pressure during cold weather, making sure windshield solvent is full, keeping new wiper blades, removing snow and ice from lights, windows and the license plate before driving, checking lights to make sure they’re still working and allowing extra time to reach the planned destination.
Drivers are also advised to prepare a winter driving survival kit to keep in their cars.
Items advised for inclusion in the kit are an extra winter coat, pants, hat, boots and gloves, as well as a blanket, nonperishable food items, a flashlight with extra batteries, salt, matches, jumper cables, a tow strap, first aid kit, a spare tire and a jack and road flares.
Additionally, if drivers become stranded in their car for any reason, they are advised to not leave their vehicles and to wait for help.
Road condition information is available via the Indiana Department of Transportation, which can be reached at 800-261-7623.
Drivers should use the INDOT website or travel hotline before calling the police for information. Additional information can be found online at in.gov/isp/2332.htm .
Holly Hays
