Even experienced drivers can find their nerves and skills tested by winter road conditions, the Virginia Department of Transportation advises. Here are some tips to help you drive safely as the weather turns cold.
Before beginning your trip, know the current road conditions and weather forecast. For statewide highway information 24 hours a day, call 511, visit www.511virginia.org or download the app.
Make sure your vehicle
is ready for winter
Check your brakes and tires.
Check your battery and ignition system.
Check your antifreeze and thermostat.
Check your windshield wipers and de-icing washer fluid.
Check your headlights, tail and brake lights, blinkers and emergency flashers.
Check your exhaust system, heater and defroster.
Check your oil.
Properly lubricate door locks that may be prone to freezing.
Clear the snow and ice from your vehicle’s roof, hood and trunk and especially from the windows, mirrors and lights.
Always wear your seat belt.
Leave a few minutes early.
Start out slowly in the lowest gear recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges.
Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road.
Don’t pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary. Treat these as you would emergency response vehicles.
Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car.
Give crews room to clear roads. This way, first-responders can respond quickly.
VDOT encourages all motorists to avoid non-essential travel during winter weather and, if traveling, to observe extreme caution when on the roadways. Prior to travel, VDOT also encourages motorists to inspect their vehicle’s tires, fluid levels and to clear all ice snow from windows, windshields and mirrors that may block visibility. Additionally, motorists are encouraged to keep an emergency winter driving kit in their vehicles in the event of a breakdown or stoppage.
An emergency winter driving kit should have: Flashlight and extra batteries; ice scraper; Cell phone and charger; Jumper cables; Blankets or quilts; First aid kit; Bottled water; Non-perishable food (nuts, energy bars); Abrasive material for traction (cat litter, sand); Shovel.
If you get stuck in your vehicle
Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window.
Make yourself visible to rescuers.
Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
Tie a colored cloth (preferably red) to your antenna or door.
Raise the hood indicating trouble after snow stops falling.
Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter. Be careful; distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close, but could be too far to walk to in deep snow.
Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open an upwind window slightly for ventilation. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. Vigorously move your arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating and to keep warm. In extreme cold, use seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
Be careful not to waste battery power. Balance electrical energy needs—the use of lights, heat and radio—with supply.
Turn on the inside light at night so work crews or rescuers can see you.
If stranded in a remote area, stomp large block letters in an open area spelling out HELP or SOS and line with rocks or tree limbs to attract the attention of rescue personnel who may be surveying the area by airplane.
Leave the car and proceed on foot—if necessary—once the storm passes.