Weldon Hastings
January 21, 2025
Winter driving in Northeast Ohio presents unique challenges, from icy roads to poor visibility caused by snowstorms. Staying safe requires preparation, awareness, and the proper use of your vehicle’s features. Here are essential tips for navigating snowy and cold conditions, including when to use your hazard lights.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Roads
- Check Your Tires
- Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread. Winter or all-season tires are recommended for better grip on snowy and icy roads.
- Maintain Your Battery and Fluids
- Cold weather reduces battery performance. Test your battery to ensure it’s fully charged.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing and ensure you have enough fuel for unexpected delays.
- Pack an Emergency Kit
- Include a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, water, snacks, and a phone charger.
Driving Safely in Snowy Conditions
- Slow Down and Leave Space
- Reduce your speed to maintain control, especially when roads are slick.
- Leave at least 6 seconds of distance between you and the car ahead.
- Avoid Sudden Movements
- Brake and accelerate gently to prevent skidding.
- If your car starts to skid, steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes.
- Use Your Lights Correctly
- Turn on your headlights during snow or low-visibility conditions. Avoid using high beams in heavy snow, as the light reflects off the flakes and reduces visibility.
- Understanding Hazard Lights
- Use hazard lights when you’re moving significantly slower than traffic due to severe weather, such as during a whiteout.
- Do not use hazard lights while driving at normal speeds, as they can confuse other drivers about your intentions.
- If you’re stopped or pulled over on the shoulder, always turn on your hazard lights to alert passing vehicles.
Additional Tips for Winter Driving
- Stay Alert for Black Ice
- Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas where ice forms first.
- Avoid Cruise Control
- In slippery conditions, maintain full control of your speed manually to respond to sudden changes.
- Clear All Snow from Your Car
- Remove snow and ice from windows, mirrors, headlights, and the roof of your vehicle to ensure visibility and prevent hazards for other drivers.
- Know When to Stay Off the Road
- If conditions are severe, consider postponing non-essential travel. Safety should always come first.
Resources for Drivers
- Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT)
- Real-time road and traffic conditions: ohgo.com
- AAA Roadside Assistance
- Contact for breakdowns: 1-800-AAA-HELP or aaa.com
- National Weather Service
- Weather alerts and updates: weather.gov
- Local Emergency Numbers
- Always dial 911 for accidents or emergencies on the road.
Driving in cold and snowy weather requires extra caution and preparation. By staying informed, using your vehicle’s features appropriately—such as hazard lights—and keeping safety as your top priority, you can navigate winter roads with confidence. Stay safe out there!
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