The forecast for eastern Nebraska, including Lincoln, calls for snow and winter weather. So far, Lincoln has been spared any snow or ice on the roadway. There are a lot more accidents the first snow and ice of the season as drivers forget the differences in driving on dry and ice and snow-packed roadways. Last year we discussed winter driving: Drivers Prepare: Winter Weather Is Arriving Soon and Drivers Take Care: Winter Weather Is Almost Here. This post is presents a new way, using the ABC’s, to help drivers stay safe while driving in winter weather, snow and ice.
WINTER DRIVING MNEMONICS
Different organizations and entities use mnemonics (a device such as a pattern of letters, ideas, or associations to assist in remembering something) for winter driving safety:
The three P’s of Safe Winter Driving: PREPARE for the trip; PROTECT yourself; and PREVENT crashes on the road.
(Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): OSHA’s Safe Winter Driving)
S-A-F-E-T-Y
Slow down for wet, snowy, icy conditions.
Avoid quick braking or acceleration.
Find out about driving conditions before you go.
Everytime – buckle up.
Turn signals, brake lights and windows need to be clear of snow.
You should never use cruise control in winter weather conditions.
(From Clear Roads: www.clearroads.org)
THE ABC’s OF SAFE WINTER DRIVING
While not as easy to remember as the mnemonics above, Lapin Law Offices offers a more comprehensive ABC’s of winter driving safety:
Avoid sudden acceleration, braking and steering, which can cause a loss of control of your vehicle.
Brake early and correctly for your vehicle.
Completely clear off your vehicle before driving.
Do you really need to drive if the weather or road is bad?
Everyone should buckle up or be in a proper child safety seat.
Find out about the weather and road conditions before you start your trip.
Gas tank should be at least half full so the fuel line does not freeze or if you get stranded.
Have an emergency safety kit especially if travelling outside of a city or town.
Increase your following distance when driving on snow or ice.
Jumper cables should be taken if travelling long distances or if your vehicle will be parked for a long period of time in extreme cold.
Know your vehicle, its features and how it operates on snow and ice.
Leave for your destination early or with plenty of time to get where you are going.
Make sure the vehicle and driver are ready for the trip.
Never use cruise control when driving on snow or ice.
Open your eyes for all sources of possible danger: snow, ice, black ice, wrecks, and pedestrians.
Prepare for winter driving.
Quit driving if the road or weather is too bad.
Road and weather conditions should be checked before starting your trip.
Slow down and drive more slowly on snow and ice.
Technology will not save you if you are going to fast or have lost control of your vehicle
Use low gears, if available, to keep traction, especially on hills.
Visualize potential problems well in advance of reaching them on the road.
Winterize your vehicle.
X-Mas is on December 25th (sorry but not many driving words start with the letter “X”).
You should always drive defensively.
Zero degrees Celsius is when water freezes (again not many driving words start with this letter).
CONCLUSION
Snow and ice cause more motor vehicle accidents, especially the first couple winter storms, each year as drivers forget that they must drive differently. By remembering the 3 P’s, S-A-F-E-T-Y, and this last tip you should hopefully avoid any collisions.
Lastly, ask yourself, “When it’s snowing should you be going?”
Lapin Law Offices urges Nebraska drivers to stay safe this time of year by being prepared and driving carefully.
ABOUT LAPIN LAW OFFICES
Lapin Law Offices represents drivers, passengers and pedestrians injured in a motor vehicle accident due to the fault of another driver, whether on snow, ice or other any other cause. To learn more about us or to find out if you have a case please contact us:
402-421-8033 (Lincoln) or 888-525-8819 (Toll Free)
Through our websites: lapinlawoffices or StopBadCollectors
Submit your case or question: Contact Us or Chat with us
We offer a free consultation and do not collect a fee unless we get money for you.
