Winter weather conditions can make driving much more dangerous in Pennsylvania. Snow and rain can lower visibility, and icy roads can make steering and braking much more difficult. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, inclement weather leads to almost 500,000 car accidents and 2,000 car accident fatalities every year.
Prepare ahead of each drive
This winter, you may be able to lower your chance of getting into an accident by preparing for sloppy road conditions ahead of time. It’s important to check weather reports so that you can plan the best times to travel and try to limit the number of drives you take. Remember to keep up on your car maintenance, make sure your tires are properly inflated and keep at least a half-tank of fuel in your car.
Stay safe on the road
A lot of car crashes happen over the winter because drivers do not adjust their speed for the changing weather conditions. The faster you are driving, the more difficult it will be to brake, especially when the road is icy. During winter, it’s best to keep a greater following distance from the car in front of you. Be extra cautious while driving up hills as braking or increasing your speed on an icy hill can cause your car to spin out.
Long-distance trips
Taking a long, cross-country drive over the winter is risky. However, many people do it anyway because they are visiting family and friends. If you’re planning a long-distance road trip, don’t forget to pack an emergency bag in your vehicle with extra snacks, water, a warm blanket and other essential items. You should also let friends and family know the route you are taking and keep them updated on where you are. That way, if you get stranded in the snow, rescuers will know where to look.