Salt Smart Tips for Staying Safe on the Roads this Winter

Cars waiting at red light in a wet, snowy street

It takes a little time to adjust to winter driving after the first snowfall. Stay safe on the roads this winter by adopting smart winter driving habits:

1. When there is snow—Go Slow.

Everyone is in a hurry to get where they are going, but we’re much more likely to get into an accident when driving fast in slippery conditions. On snowy or icy days, plan ahead and give yourself extra time to adjust to road conditions.

Graphic: When there is snow, go slow.

2. Don’t Crowd the Plow.

Give snow plows time and space to do their jobs. Remember that snow plow drivers are working long hours to keep you safe!

The optimal speed for a plow is 25-35 MPH. Plow drivers may need to slow down or move over due to reduced visibility from snowfall or to avoid stranded vehicles and other obstacles. Passing a plow truck is never a good idea. Since the road ahead is not plowed yet, road conditions are safer behind the plow truck than in front of it.

Don't crowd the plow.

3. Be Prepared.

Weather conditions are unpredictable and can vary greatly from the time you leave your house to when you arrive at your destination. Roadside emergencies happen when you least expect it—be prepared by keeping a winter emergency kit in your trunk.

Consider packing a blanket, hand warmers, an extra jacket, a hat and gloves, and snacks. A flashlight, ice scraper, small shovel, and jumper cables can also come in handy if you get stuck or your car won’t start. Make sure your young drivers know what to do if they get stuck.

Drivers will encounter dangerous road conditions at some point this winter. While we all want to get to our destinations on time, we also want to get there safely.

Keep a winter emergency kit in your truck

Go Slow. Don’t Crowd the Plow. Be Prepared. And most importantly, Be Safe.

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