.:: WINTER WEATHER DRIVING TIPS ::.

For Road Conditions / Information: Call 5-1-1 toll free in all states.
511 on the web:

• Kentucky: 511.ky.gov
• Tennessee : www.tn511.com
• Indiana : www.in.gov/indot/

Basic Winter Weather Driving tips:
ICE OR SNOW--- TAKE IT SLOW
Slower Speeds, Slower Acceleration, Slower Braking Slower Steering

• Speed:  The faster you’re going, the longer it will take to stop.  When accelerating on snow or ice, take it slow to avoid slipping or sliding.  Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.
• Distance:  Give yourself space.  It takes extra time and extra distance to bring your car to a stop on slick and snowy roads.  Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Brakes:  Brake early, brake slowly, brake correctly and never slam on the brakes.  If you have anti-lock brakes, press the pedal down firmly and hold it.  If you don’t have anti-lock brakes, gently pump the pedal.  Either way, give yourself plenty of room to stop.
• Control:  When driving on ice and snow, do not use cruise control and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers.  When merging into traffic, take it slow.  Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to slide.
• Vision:  Be aware of what’s going on well ahead of you.  Actions by other vehicles will alert you to problems more quickly, and give you that split-second of extra time to react safely.

Other things to remember:

• First Snow or Ice:  Drivers often aren’t prepared for winter driving and forget to take it slow.  Remember to drive well below the posted speed limit and leave plenty of room between cars.
• Black Ice:  Roads that seem dry may actually be slippery – and dangerous.  Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges or shady areas – all are hot spots for black ice.  Remember, Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.
• Four-Wheel Drive:  On snow and ice, go slowly, no matter what type of vehicle you drive.  Even if you have an SUV with four-wheel drive you may not be able to stop any faster, or maintain control any better, once you lose traction.  Four-wheel drive may get you going faster, but it won’t help you stop sooner.

An emergency kit to carry in the car: a flashlight, reflectors, jumper cables, first aid kit and an empty gas can.  Some extra items to add: a pair of gloves for tire changes; a rain poncho, a blanket for inclement weather, along with some energy snacks, trail mix, either bottled water / sports drinks.