BOISE – With winter storms blanketing much of the Gem State today, AAA reminds drivers to be extra careful behind the wheel.
“Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns – your risk of losing traction goes up dramatically,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Also, when driving on the freeway, watch for slush that may build up between lanes, especially before you make a lane change.”
AAA urges drivers to:
- Triple your following distance during a winter storm (9 seconds from the vehicle in front of you)
- Honestly assess your own winter driving skills and consider the skills of other drivers. In some cases, it may be best to postpone your errands.
- In the event of a crash or breakdown, stay with your vehicle wherever possible. If you need to run the engine to stay warm, do so in short intervals to conserve fuel, and make sure that the tailpipe is clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Tell a friend or loved one where you’re traveling and when you expect to arrive.
- Keep a blanket, warm hat, and gloves in your vehicle, and dress in layers for freedom of movement behind the wheel.
“Please remove all snow and ice from windshields, headlights, brake lights, the roof, and the hood – anything that could affect your view or blow off the car and affect other drivers,” Conde said. “And never blindly follow your GPS. If a road doesn’t look maintained, turn around.”
For more winter driving information, including a list of emergency kit essentials, visit AAA.com/winterprep.