DRIVING IN ALL KINDS OF WEATHER

El Nino is here and promises to bring all kinds of interesting weather to us!  Here is a little checklist of things to do when driving in unusual weather … at home or elsewhere!

Driving In The Rain

• Turn your headlights on – many states require it.
• Remember that oil on the pavement can make driving conditions slick.
• Should you hydroplane, keep the steering wheel straight but remove your foot from the gas.
• It takes longer to stop on wet roads so adjust your speed accordingly.
• Don’t drive closely behind large vehicles as their spray can reduce your visibility.
• Make sure your wiper blades are working properly.
• Make sure your tires have proper tread.
• Drive carefully through puddles, they may be hiding a pothole.
• If your windows fog use the defroster.
• If you are in a thunderstorm and you need to pull over, do not park under trees.
• Look out for downed branches and power lines.

Driving In Flood-Like Conditions

• Driving through moving water could cause your vehicle to be swept away.

• It only takes two feet of water to carry a car away.
• If your carpets get wet do not turn on the ignition as it can damage your vehicle.  Have your car care provider check it out first!
• Even a small amount of water can damage your braking system.
• If you are driving through deep water and your vehicle stalls…do not attempt to restart it because it could result in engine damage.

Driving In Fog

• Reduce your speed
• Use low beam headlights
• Use your defroster
• Use your wipers
• Poor visibility limits your vision when it comes to other vehicles, pedestrians, and animals…proceed with caution.

Driving In Ice

• Bridges and overpasses freeze first
• Reduce speed
• Easy on the brakes
• Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and others on the road
• If you skid, turn your steering wheel into the skid, ease off the accelerator and do not slam on the brakes.
• If you encounter black ice ease up on the gas rather than applying the brakes

Driving In Snow

• Make sure your windows are clean and that accumulated snow is removed from the hood and top of the vehicle.
• Drive slowly and allow ample stopping distance so you don’t collide with a vehicle ahead of you.
• Do not slam on brakes…ease off gas gently and then lightly apply brakes.
• If your area allows and it is necessary use chains and snow tires.

Driving With a False Sense of Security

Those who drive SUV’s and trucks and other four-wheel drive vehicles sometimes have a false sense of security. Slick highways put all vehicles on an equal footing so proceeding with caution is recommended.