Published: December 16, 2008 10:15 am         

Oklahoma Highway Patrol Winter Driving Safety Tips

Are You Ready for Winter Driving?



The Oklahoma Highway Patrol wants you and your family to stay safe on the roads this winter. By following these tips and advice, you’ll be ready for winter driving. And don’t forget: Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.



Be Prepared!



Knowledge: Before leaving home, find out about the driving conditions. Safe drivers know the weather, and their limits. If the weather is bad remember, Ice and Snow, Take it Slow, or just don’t go.



Clear: Remove any snow on your vehicle’s windows, lights, brake lights and signals. Make sure you can be seen and be seen.



Preparation: Check your vehicle’s tires, wiper blades, lights, belts, hoses and fluids. Keep your gas tank full. A breakdown is bad on a good day and dangerous on a bad-weather day. Carry a winter driving kit: blankets, flashlight and extra batteries, a brightly colored cloth, sand or kitty litter, shovel, candles, matches, non-perishable high calorie food, a first aid kit and jumper cables and cell phone. Before traveling let someone know your travel route.



Time: Leave plenty of time to reach your destination safely. Most of the accidents investigated during winter weather are caused by motorist driving to fast for road conditions. It’s not worth putting yourself and others in a dangerous situation just to be on time.



Driving: Beware of bridges, underpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt. Slow down to increase traction and don’t use cruise control on slick roads. Avoid abrupt stops and starts, slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid loosing traction. If you become stranded due to the weather do not leave your car: it’s the best protection you have. Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna if you need help. Roll down your window a small amount for fresh air. Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Don’t panic! An idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour. If you have a cell phone call *55 and this will connect you with an Oklahoma Highway Patrol headquarters.



Remember, Slow Down, Use Seat Belts and Child Restraints and Don’t Drink and Drive.



In addition to the tips above, the Highway Patrol say it is critical that motorist not call 911 or local Highway Patrol offices for updates on road conditions. Instead the Oklahoma Highway Patrol maintains a road condition hotline at 405-425-2385 or 888-425-2385. Road conditions are also posted online at www.dps.state.ok.us