December 14, 2007

Winter Driving Safety Tips

The New Hampshire Division of State Police urges motorists to be safe on the roads of the state this winter. If possible, do not travel, or keep travel to a minimum during periods of winter weather in order to allow snow removal crews to clear the roadways.

For those who need to drive in adverse winter weather conditions, the the following winter driving safety tips are recommended:

• Take Note of the Local Forecast
  Take note of local forecasts and plan accordingly for adverse weather conditions. Motorists are reminded that they can dial 511 on their cell phones for current traffic and road conditions on New Hampshire highways.
  

• Vehicle Preparation
  With a forecast of inclement weather, motorists should ensure that their vehicles are well maintained and properly equipped for winter driving. Motorists should check the fluid levels of their vehicles, particularly washer fluid and anti-freeze, to make sure that they are at adequate levels. Tires should be inspected to ensure they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Motorists should equip their vehicles with a snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables, flares, a flashlight and some warm clothing and blankets. Additionally, motorists are reminded to completely clear their vehicles of snow and ice prior to driving. Clearing vehicles of snow and ice enhances the safety of all motorists by providing an unobstructed view to the operator and prevents snow and ice from flying off vehicles at high speeds posing a hazard to others on the road.
  

• Reduce Speed
  Most winter weather-related crashes are caused by “spin-outs” and vehicles sliding off the road due to excessive speeds for the road and weather conditions. Speed Limits are set for driving under optimal, dry conditions. If road and weather conditions are adverse, it is more reasonable and proper to operate at a speed that is well below the posted limit.
  

• Leave Extra Space Between Vehicles
  Under optimal driving conditions, motorists should leave at least one car length for every ten miles per hour between them and the vehicle in front of them. If the road and weather conditions are adverse, the distance should be significantly increased in order to afford for increased stopping distances.
  

• Dial 911 in Roadway Emergencies
  In any weather conditions, motorists who become disabled or encounter an emergency on the roadways should dial 911 and report their location and the nature of the emergency. Motorists should always be aware of their location, noting the route they are traveling on, the mile marker and the number of the exit they most recently passed.