Bad Weather Safe Driving Tips
Snow and ice are two weather conditions in which driving is not enjoyable.
In fact, it has been suggested that the safest way to handle driving in winter weather is to just stay home.
That might work for areas where bad conditions are of short duration.
But, in an area like Alaska, where ice and snow is standard for longer periods, that might not be possible.
If you live in an area where travel in bad weather is impossible to avoid, there are some tricks and tips that will help you drive more safely.
It will be necessary to go to the grocery, or to work, or to school at some point in time.
You might not be able to choose when to undertake that driving trip.
So, observe a few tips for safer driving.
One tip involves timing.
You might not always be able to control when you have to get out on the roads.
But, if possible, wait until roads have cleared some, either from road maintenance crews or improvement in weather.
You may be able to time it right, but, if possible, wait for better road conditions.
Another tip involving timing is to allow plenty of time to get where you are going.
Start earlier, postpone appointments for a time, or, if neither of those is possible, just accept you will arrive later than planned at your destination.
It is better to arrive later than not at all.
Before venturing out in bad weather, make sure your car is ready.
Be sure to get routine winterizing done on your car before the weather gets bad.
Also, be sure all mechanical operations are in top condition.
Have the appropriate tires for the driving conditions.
Be sure brakes are in top-notch condition.
Check wiper blades, defroster, and heater to insure they are in ideal condition.
In addition to making sure your car is prepared, make personal preparations as well.
Be sure to have a first aid kit, well equipped for any possible needs.
Have chocolate bars for quick energy, packages of cheese/crackers, jerky, and other non-perishable foods.
Keep plenty of blankets to help keep you warm.
In the event that the worst happens and you are involved in an accident, be sure your insurance needs are up-to-date.
There are strict Alaska mandatory insurance requirements since it is one state that frequently sees bad weather conditions.
This means there is a great need for good coverage.
Be sure you are in compliance with your state's insurance regulations.
In fact, it has been suggested that the safest way to handle driving in winter weather is to just stay home.
That might work for areas where bad conditions are of short duration.
But, in an area like Alaska, where ice and snow is standard for longer periods, that might not be possible.
If you live in an area where travel in bad weather is impossible to avoid, there are some tricks and tips that will help you drive more safely.
It will be necessary to go to the grocery, or to work, or to school at some point in time.
You might not be able to choose when to undertake that driving trip.
So, observe a few tips for safer driving.
One tip involves timing.
You might not always be able to control when you have to get out on the roads.
But, if possible, wait until roads have cleared some, either from road maintenance crews or improvement in weather.
You may be able to time it right, but, if possible, wait for better road conditions.
Another tip involving timing is to allow plenty of time to get where you are going.
Start earlier, postpone appointments for a time, or, if neither of those is possible, just accept you will arrive later than planned at your destination.
It is better to arrive later than not at all.
Before venturing out in bad weather, make sure your car is ready.
Be sure to get routine winterizing done on your car before the weather gets bad.
Also, be sure all mechanical operations are in top condition.
Have the appropriate tires for the driving conditions.
Be sure brakes are in top-notch condition.
Check wiper blades, defroster, and heater to insure they are in ideal condition.
In addition to making sure your car is prepared, make personal preparations as well.
Be sure to have a first aid kit, well equipped for any possible needs.
Have chocolate bars for quick energy, packages of cheese/crackers, jerky, and other non-perishable foods.
Keep plenty of blankets to help keep you warm.
In the event that the worst happens and you are involved in an accident, be sure your insurance needs are up-to-date.
There are strict Alaska mandatory insurance requirements since it is one state that frequently sees bad weather conditions.
This means there is a great need for good coverage.
Be sure you are in compliance with your state's insurance regulations.
