Winter Driving Tips
Sonora, CA – The first winter storm could hit the region overnight according to the National Weather Service and CHP wants to make sure drivers think safety first. The CHP says the best defense is not to go out on the roads during stormy weather, but if you must drive, use caution, common sense, and always be prepared. They say to make sure to leave yourself extra time to get to your destination and slow down.
Officer Jamie Castillo says, “Speed is definitely a factor especially for the first couple of storms for the season that’s because oil on the roads can make them very slick. So by monitoring your speed and making sure you have proper tread depth on your tires and that they are properly inflated are some ways to protect yourself.”
Castillo offers these winter driving tips as well:
- Allow enough time for your trip.
- Be observant of everything going on around you.
- Remember – black ice is nearly invisible.
- Keep your fuel tank full and your windows clear.
- Drive as conditions permit – slower acceleration, slower speeds, and slower
braking in winter conditions. - Reduce speed and leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you. Use headlights, not just parking or fog lights in foggy, rainy, and snowy weather.
- Also remember that you must have your headlights on when using your wipers.
- If you get stuck, find a safe place to stay with your vehicle and wait for help.
Castillo says it is a good idea to have these items checked on your vehicle also:
- Brakes
- Coolant
- Tires
- Windshield wipers
- Defroster
- Heater
- Exhaust systems
