Experts Urge Drivers to Slow Down

01/03/97

Reuters reported that auto safety experts warn motorists to slow down during treacherous winter conditions. Last week heavy fog caused a deadly crash on a Bridge over Florida's Tampa Bay, and heavy snow forced authorities to close interstates in Washington and Oregon. California State Automobile Association spokesman Ron Kennedy is advises drivers "to be more prepared than usual for coping with snow, ice and colder temperatures."

Experts say motorists in congested urban areas should:

- Allow enough time for travel.
- Always travel with a full tank of gas.
- Carry a shovel, flashlight, flares, and blanket or sleeping bag.
- Keep windscreen wipers, brakes and tires maintained.

The California State Auto Association warns that "when the temperature drops below 32 degrees, stopping distances need to be doubled."

The Florida Highway Patrol reported that heavy fog caused as many as 50 vehicles to crash on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay, that one person was killed, and that 20 others sustained injuries.

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel