With snow and freezing rain in the forecast for the next several days in Middle Tennessee, we thought it would be a good time to revisit some winter driving tips to ensure you and your family stay safe on the roadways. Here are a few things to enhance your safety while driving:
Slow and Steady. First and foremost, it is imperative that you drive slower on snowy and icy roads and operate at a speed that is appropriate to road conditions and visibility. Remember that a road that looks clear may have treacherous black ice, especially if a melt is followed by a drop in temperatures. Also be extremely cautious on underpasses and shaded areas.
Back Off! Keep a safe stopping distance between yourself and car or trucks on slippery roads. For trucks, this actually means staying 20-to-25 car lengths away and we recommend staying out of the same lane on uphill and downhill grades.
Avoid a Truck’s Blind Spot. If you can’t see the driver in the truck’s side mirrors, the driver can’t see you. Basically, the driver has a slim-to-zero chance of seeing you when you are along the back of the truck. Smaller cars are also invisible to a truck driver when in front of and close to the truck.
Never Turn in Parallel With a Truck. Tight maneuvering, unpredictable trailer swing, and operating in the blind spots combine to create accident conditions you want to avoid.
Stay Equipped. Basic driving needs include visibility, snow tires, enough gas in the car, sand or kitty litter for traction in case you get stuck, and extra warm clothes or blankets. A flashlight, a reflecting vest and first kit round out your winter driving supply list.
Stay Updated! Even after you have checked your route, use Waze or keep a local radio station on to keep on top of road conditions. Even if your route was clear before you left, accidents can change traffic conditions, and unplowed side streets leave you with fewer options for navigating around traffic stoppages.
Once again, we at Stillman and Friedland remind you to stay safe by minimizing the danger of driving with many heavy trucks and other cars on the road during the next few months of exceptionally treacherous conditions.
We wish you a safe and healthy winter driving season.
Because we care…
Stillman & Friedland Attorneys
