Cars are one of the most dangerous forms of transportation and driving in bad weather conditions makes them ten times more dangerous. According to Safe Winter Roads, “Nearly 900 are people killed and about 70,000 injured in car accidents due to bad weather conditions every year” such as: snow, icy pavement, slush, etc. This is a good reason to prepare yourself for upcoming winter conditions. Driving in the winter is dangerous, especially for new drivers, so when you’re out on the road here are a few tips for driving in the winter to keep not only you safe, but others as well:

• Buckle Up
• Reduce your speed
• Be cautious and aware of surroundings and conditions
• Check your car thoroughly for leaks or parts that are in need of repair or replacements
• Know your car and how it handles in bad weather conditions
• Avoid risky behavior while driving, such as texting and driving, driving under the influence, speeding, etc.
• Know how to use your anti-lock brakes
• Brake early in case of tires skidding on the ice
• Go easy on your brakes and drive smoothly/gently
• Use your headlights on
• Try driving only when necessary
• Keep an appropriate distance from other cars; do not tailgate!
• Know how to deal with skidding; turn into the skid, not the opposite direction
• Make sure you have necessary equipment, such as an ice scraper, handy  

If you feel uncomfortable driving in bad weather, don’t do it. It’s not worth risking your life.

For further tips and information see:

http://www.safewinterroads.org/safety/

https://www.dmv.com/blog/Number-of-Car-Accidents-Increase-Due-to-Cold-Weather-520541

https://www.drive-safely.net/driving-on-ice/