Press Release

AAA Publishes Winter Tips: Drive Differently in Different Vehicles

11/21/96

Different Vehicles Require Different Winter Driving Habits AAA
Washington Advises


BELLEVUE, Wash., Nov. 19 -- Motorists should be aware
that different types of vehicles have particular operating
characteristics that change the way they handle on icy or snow-covered
roads, according to AAA Washington.

"Knowing the different winter-weather capabilities of a vehicle can
mean the difference between a safe trip and serious trouble," said AAA
Washington spokesperson Janet Ray.

To become familiar with a vehicle's winter-weather operating
characteristics, AAA recommends motorists carefully practice slow
speed maneuvers on an empty snow- or ice-covered parking lot.
Motorists also should carefully read their vehicle owner's manual for
information on their vehicle's equipment and handling characteristics.

Front-wheel-drive vehicles generally handle better than
rear-wheel-drive vehicles on slippery roads because the weight of the
engine is on the drive wheels, which improves traction.  The back end
of rear-wheel-drive cars tends to slide from side-to-side during turns
on icy roads.

While many motorists are now driving sport-utility vehicles and light
trucks that can be excellent for driving in difficult conditions, AAA
Washington warns drivers not to become over confident.

"Sport-utility vehicles and pickup trucks with four-wheel-drive make
it easier to get moving on snow-covered roads, but they don't stop any
quicker than other vehicles," said Ray.  "Drivers still need to slow
down and keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of them."

Drivers of pickup trucks with rear-wheel-drive need to be especially
cautious on slick roads because these vehicles have very little weight
over the wheels that are propelling the vehicle and are prone to
rear-wheel skids on slippery roads.

A vehicle's brake system also determines how motorists should operate
in winter weather.  Anti-lock brakes systems (ABS) can provide a
significant stopping advantage on slick roads, but are only effective
if properly used.  When stopping vehicles with anti-lock brakes in
slippery conditions, motorists should apply steady pressure to the
brake pedal.  The ABS will automatically pump the brakes to keep the
wheels from locking and the vehicle from skidding.

Drivers of cars without ABS should gently apply pumping pressure to
the brakes on slippery conditions to avoid wheel lock up.
Additionally, many new cars feature traction control, which prevents
wheel spin during acceleration.  This is very helpful when initially
trying to get moving on slippery roads.

AAA Washington is a not-for-profit travel services organization with
offices in central and western Washington.  The organization provides
more than 500,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and
auto-related services.