| Brownell Insurance Center, Inc. November 2004 Newsletter | |||||||||||
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Driving Safely in Winter Weather The leading cause of death during winter storms is transportation accidents. Many accidents could be avoided if drivers took time to learn and practice these tips for driving safely during snowy and icy conditions. Perhaps the deadliest danger of all is “black ice.” Black ice is ice which forms on a roadway, usually due to snow melting and re-freezing. Since it is almost invisible, drivers fail to recognize black ice conditions and may drive at normal speeds-often resulting in very serious accidents. Always be alert to the possibility of black ice when temperatures are near or below freezing. Pavement that looks dry but appears darker in color and dull-looking should alert you to the presence of black ice. Winter Driving Tips • Always use your seatbelt. • Turn on your headlights during adverse weather conditions. • Bridges and overpasses freeze before the roadway. Use extra caution on these. • Driving in winter weather conditions causes physical and mental fatigue, reducing reaction times. Don’t drive while you’re sleepy or on medication that causes drowsiness. • Prepare your vehicle well ahead of time. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, lights and the battery. Have a mechanic give your vehicle a winter check-up and make any necessary repairs. • Stock an emergency kit containing heavy clothes and a blanket, traction material such as sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a small shovel, first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, and a bright cloth to use as a flag. |
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