KC Road Lawyers presents you with safety tips for driving on icy roads during winter conditions in Missouri.

Winter will soon be upon us. Now is the perfect time to prepare for driving through icy winter conditions. Even though driving on icy roads can be dangerous, there are steps you can take to ensure not only you and your family, but also your vehicle, are ready for these adverse road conditions. By following these simple winter weather driving tips, you will help ensure that you and your family will get to your destination and back home safely during the winter season.

The key is to be aware and adaptable.

Preparing for Your Winter Trip

Safe winter driving begins before you even leave your driveway. These simple steps can help you have a safe experience on your winter road trip:

• Monitor road and weather conditions by checking local news stations or online traffic and weather sites.
• Before you leave, make sure that you tell someone where you are going.
• Clear all visible snow and ice off your car’s windows, mirrors, lights, reflectors, hood, roof and trunk.
• Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season. Not only will this provide you with a source of heat in case you get stranded, it will also ensure that have enough gas to keep your engine going if the roads are backed up.
• Keep your windshield washer reservoir full and make sure your car has wiper blades that are in good condition. This is to ensure good visibility at all times.
• Avoid driving if you are sleepy. It is important to make sure you get enough sleep before you leave on your trip.
• Keep your tires fully inflated. This will prevent flat tires and unnecessary skidding.
• Pack blankets, gloves, hats, food, water, and any needed medication before you leave for your winter trip.
• Include a winter survival kit which includes an ice scraper, a snow shovel, and sand or salt.
• If the conditions are too harsh, avoid driving. Your safety is more important than a trip that can be postponed.

Tips for Driving on Icy Roads:

• Reduce your speed and increase your following distance as the road’s conditions and visibility worsen. Keep in mind that it takes longer to brake on icy roads.
• Driving too quickly is the main cause of accidents in winter conditions. Drive a lot slower than the usual speed limit because they were intended for dry roads. It is best to be patient and accept that your trip will take longer.
• Do not use cruise control when driving in icy conditions. You must stay alert!
• Be cautious on bridges and overpasses. They are commonly the first areas to become icy.
• Avoid passing snowplows and sand trucks.
• Be extra cautious when snow banks limit your view on oncoming traffic.
• Do not accelerate or decelerate too quickly.
• Know how to brake on slippery surfaces. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes operate differently from those that do not have anti-lock brakes.
• Do not power up when driving up a slope. Rather build up power while on a flat surface and use that power when driving up a slope.
• Avoid sudden stops.
• Always remember to buckle up!

Tips on How to Handle Getting Stuck on the Road During Icy Conditions:

• Stay with your vehicle. This will provide you temporary shelter and make it easier for rescue personnel to find you on the road. Do not risk getting lost in a blizzard while you are not with your car.
• While conserving gas, run your car heater just long enough to remove any chill within your vehicle. Be sure to also make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow before you run your car engine.
• To signal distress, Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or the top of a rolled up window. Keep the dome light on at night to help rescuers find you in the dark.
• Don’t over exert yourself while trying to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow.
• Insulate your body from the cold via the use of extras jersey’s, newspaper and car mats.

Contact KC Road Lawyers If Involved in an Accident During Winter Conditions

If you or a loved one gets injured on icy roads in winter conditions, contact KC Road Lawyers today. Call 816-425-2420 or navigate to our contact page for a free consultation. We will work with you and your family to get you compensated and back on the road.