Winter driving: It shouldn’t be hazardous to your health
Posted by admin on November 11, 2010
Last month, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet offered tips on prepping your vehicle for the hazardous conditions of winter weather. Ranging from having the proper oil viscosity for your engines to making sure your automotive batteries were charged to the proper levels, our tips offered the proper groundwork for setting out from travelling from ‘point A’ to ‘point B’.
But when the traffic conditions are hazardous and the situation calls for an impromptu trip to the grocery store for that last needed necessity, are you up on your wintery driving skills?
Johnny Londoff Chevrolet presents the following tips to assist you in your driving this wintertime.
Slow and steady wins the race. The answer seems too obvious but it is true: driving in winter and winter-like conditions calls for caution. Not only that, it requires slower steering, slower acceleration and slower braking. Being mindful of the conditions, adhering to the speed limit and taking great care at your pace can help avoid accidents and arrive at your destination unscathed.
Let there be light. Using your lights isn’t just for nighttime; it’s for driving in inclement conditions. In fact, it’s actually a traffic offense in the state of Missouri if you are using your windshield wipers without your lights on! Keep in mind – though – setting your beams on low during evening driving while it’s snowing. By having using your “brights” on, you’re limiting your sight distance and making bad driving conditions even worse.
Distance Yourself. It takes longer to stop your vehicle when driving on snow or ice. Be sure to leave a safe distance, roughly 8 to 10 seconds, between your vehicle and any vehicle that may be travelling ahead of you. When you do attempt to stop, gently press the brakes – don’t slam them. Slamming your brakes may put you and your vehicle in serious danger.
Steer into the Skid. Snap reactions are a given no matter the situation – it’s human nature. Driving in icy and snowy conditions is no different. When the situation arises and your vehicle requires immediate action when sliding, be mindful to “steer into the skid”. The following diagram, courtesy of Missouri Driver’s Guide, illustrates what steering into a skid requires in these types of conditions.
At Johnny Londoff Chevrolet, we hope these driving tips can help as you take to the streets this winter in your vehicle. Your safety is important to us.
To experience the Johnny Londoff Chevrolet difference for yourself, stop by our dealership at the Washington & Elizabeth exit in St. Louis or visit us online 24/7 at Londoff.com!
