WIESBADEN, Germany - Driving in winter weather — snow, ice, wet and cold — creates a great challenge for vehicles and drivers. What makes the difference between an ordinary driver and a good one? An ordinary driver reacts to the road situations. A good driver anticipates crises and avoids them.
Here are some tips for driving in winter weather.
c Buckle up before you start driving. Keep your seat belt buckled at all times.
c Slow down. Posted speed limits are for ideal travel conditions. Driving at reduced speeds is the best precautionary measure against any misfortune while driving on slippery roads.
c “Black ice” is invisible. Black ice will make a road look like shiny new asphalt.
c Do not use cruise control. Winter driving requires you to be in full control at all times.
c Allow for extra traveling time or even consider delaying a trip if the weather is inclement.
c Lengthen the following distance behind the vehicle ahead of you. Stopping distance on an icy road is double that of stopping on a dry one. For example, from around 45 meters (140 feet) at the speed of 60 km/h, to 80 meters (over 260 feet) on an icy road surface.
c Steer with smooth and precise movements. Changing lanes too quickly and jerky steering while braking or accelerating can cause skidding.
c Be aware and slow down when you see a sign warning that you are approaching a bridge. Bridges are likely to be icy even when there is no ice on the other road surface, (because bridges over open air cool down faster than roads which tend to be insulated somewhat by solid ground.)
c Consider getting off the road before getting stranded if the weather is worsening.
c Be patient and pass other cars only when it is safe to do so.