Planning a winter road trip?

Winter is a great season for vacations, but you need to be sure your vehicle is ready. In some areas of the country, winter travel can be challenging and even hazardous — winter weather can make road conditions unpredictable. If you live in a warmer climate (er...Texas) and don't have to fight the unpredictable and sometimes hazardous road conditions, you still need to be sure your vehicle is prepared for the journey. Here are a few winter driving tips to help make your vacation safe and successful:


Prepare your vehicle

• Perform all recommended maintenance — Refer to your manufacturer's guidelines for your specific car or truck maintenance. But before you travel, check oil and oil filter, fluid levels, brakes, battery and tires.
• Winterize your vehicle — If you think you may be heading into snow, check belts and hoses, antifreeze, oil, lights, brakes, heater and defroster, and check the exhaust system for leaks that could allow carbon monoxide to enter the vehicle.

Driving in snow -- Try not to drive until the snow plows and sanding trucks have cleared the roadway. Always consult your owner's manual for tips specific to your vehicle. Here are a few other tips for driving in the snow:

• Add some time to the 3-second rule — it takes longer to stop on slippery surfaces.
• Brake before you turn a corner.
• Brake gently to avoid skidding — if your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
• Plan your route ahead of time and give yourself extra travel time.

Driving on ice — It's best not to drive on ice, but if you find yourself in dangerous conditions, make sure you know how to handle your vehicle:

• Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop — allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Don't use cruise control or overdrive — use low gears to keep traction.
• Keep your lights and windshield clean.

For more driving safety tips, check with The Weather Channel or weather.com at

http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/drivingsafety/drivingsafetytips/snow.html

Winter driving survival kit

If something does go wrong on your winter driving trip, be sure you have what you need to handle any situation, from a flat tire to an overheated engine. Pack winter driving basics, such as emergency flares, extra oil, antifreeze, blankets, drinking water, and a cell phone so that you can call for assistance.

These winter driving and auto care tips will make travel safer and more fun. For additional information on winter driving safety tips, call me or visit the National Traffic Safety Institute at http://www.ntsi.com/articles/winterdriving.php

Farmers Friendly Voice - October 2009