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SAFE WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Slow Down! Drive according to road and weather conditions. Remember, the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights - even the hood and roof - before driving.
Leave plenty of room for stopping and brake early. It takes more time to stop when roads are wet or icy.
- Know current road conditions:
- View weather and traffic - information at www.wsdot.wa.gov
- Check local news for weather and traffic reports
- Watch electronic highway signs for information
- Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows - stay at least 15 car lengths (200 feet) back and don't pass on the right.
- Watch for icy surfaces on bridges, even when the rest of the road seems to be in good condition. Bridge decks will ice up first.
- Look farther ahead in traffic. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra seconds to react.
- Trucks take longer to stop, so don't cut in front of them.
- Don't use your cruise control or overdrive when it's freezing (or colder). Even roads that appear clear can have isolated slippery spots and the short touch of your brakes to deactivate cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. With overdrive, as you encounter a hill your vehicle automatically accelerates or downshifts, which can cause loss of traction.
- Don't get overconfident with four-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive helps you get going quicker but it won't help you stop any faster.
- Don't pump anti-lock brakes. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes, do not pump your brakes. The right way is to "stomp and steer."
- Know your vehicle. Read your Owners Manual.
- Adjust to Road Conditions. The faster your vehicle is going, the more distance it will take to turn, slow, or stop.
- Slow down at the first sign of rain, snow, or sleet. When the road is slippery, the vehicle's tires do not grip as well as they do on a dry road.
- Allow extra time. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination when roads may be slick. Consider delaying your trip.
- Drive with your headlights on.
If at all possible, do not drive when the roads are icy.
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