(WMC-TV) - AAA is offering advice for drivers who must go out in the wintry weather conditions.
Precipitation and cold temperatures can cause ice to form, especially on bridges. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the roads:
1. Buckle up!
No matter the weather, be sure everyone's in seat belts, restraint seats or booster seats, even in vehicles with airbags.
2. Focus.
Eliminate all distractions. Driving demands our full attention even in good weather.
3. Know your car.
Tires are the most important part of the car. Make sure they have the proper air pressure and good tread. Low tire pressure cuts fuel mileage, steering and braking traction.
New vehicles often feature traction and stability technology that help prevent skids. Check the owner's manual to know what that technology will do, and – just as important – what it won't do.
4. See and be seen.
Clear all windows and outside mirrors, turn on headlights to low beam (even in daylight), search for hazards far down the road to spot traffic tie-ups, slippery hills or other situations you may want to begin stopping for early, or steering around.
5. Make smooth moves.
Slow way down, leave plenty of following distance behind the next vehicle - at least six to eight seconds on slippery roads, and leave an "out" to one side.
Accelerate, brake and steer slowly and smoothly. Jerky motions increase the risk of skids.
6. Apply Steady Braking.
In vehicles without antilock brakes, do not pump the brakes. Keep steady pressure on unless the wheels lock, then ease up on the pedal just enough to regain traction. Rolling wheels have more traction than locked wheels.
In vehicles with antilock brake systems, keep pressing the pedal firmly and steadily. The antilock system should handle the rest- do not pump the brakes. Pumping antilock brakes will remove any benefits they provide.
7. Recover from a skid without panicking.
If you start to skid, stay off the brakes and accelerator and don't shift gears. Simply look and steer in the direction you want the car to go. When the skid is over you'll be better able to move the car to a safe spot and calm down before resuming your trip.
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