The first snowfall of 2017 is expected to hit the tri-state region tomorrow morning and the AAA Roadside Rescue Team will be ready to respond to calls for assistance from motorists.
Weather predictions indicate that 1-3 inches of snow will blanket the region and with slick roadways that can be difficult to maneuver, motorists should take the proper precautions to ensure safety while traveling to their destinations with the following tips:
Before Heading Out:
· Avoid driving while you’re fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.
· Buckle up! Make sure everyone is buckled in or seated in the appropriate child passenger safety seat.
·Make certain your tires are properly inflated and keep an eye on the battery. The cold weather makes it harder for the battery to start the car, especially on chilly mornings.
· Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid running out of gas if you are stuck in traffic.
• Clean ice and snow off wipers, windshield and all windows and clean headlights and taillights to improve visibility.
• Plan your route before you leave to avoid traffic or untreated roadways. Let someone know your intended route and what time you will arrive at your destination.
• Always carry emergency supplies, such as a AAA car care kit, boots, shovel, blanket, snacks and water. Make sure cell phones are charged in case or an emergency.
Driving on slippery streets:
• Increase following distance to 8-10 seconds.
• Know your brakes. If the vehicle is not equipped with an antilock braking system, pump the brakes. If the vehicle has ABS, don’t pump, break with firm pressure.
• Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Reduced traction causes simple maneuvers, such as accelerating, stopping and turning, to take longer on snow-covered roads.
• Don’t power up hills. Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads causes wheels to spin. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce the speed and proceed downhill as slowly as possible.
In case of an emergency:
• Pull off the road onto level ground, away from traffic as safely as possible. If you cannot pull off the road, make vehicles visible by switching on emergency flashers. Do not risk danger to yourself by attempting to push your vehicle to a safe location.
• Alert other motorists. Make sure your vehicle is visible to other motorists by turning on emergency flashers and raising the hood.
• Communicate your situation. Once you and your passengers are in a safe location, call for assistance. AAA members in need of roadside assistance can reach AAA by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP or visiting AAA.com/roadsideassistance. iPhone and Android users can download the AAA mobile app for free and request roadside service with a touch of a button.
• Remain with your vehicle. Under most circumstances, if you have a cell phone, it’s best to remain with your vehicle until assistance arrives. However, if you think your vehicle might be struck from behind, do not remain in it. Never stand behind or directly in front of it because other drivers may not see you.
Motorists are reminded that it’s the law to slow down and move over for emergency personnel, including roadside assistance providers. Reduce speed and, if possible, move over one lane of traffic to provide a safe area for stranded motorists and emergency personnel assisting them.
From AAA