Surviving the Roads During Another Midwestern Winter

Guest editorial by: Kevin Techau, Commissioner, Department of Public Safety, and Jeff Ogden, president of AAA Minnesota/Iowa

BURNSVILLE, Minn., Nov. 5 -- Not surprisingly, crash rates and injuries are higher in winter than any other season. However, many people would be surprised to know the majority of winter crashes do not occur during a snowstorm or blizzard, but rather when the weather is clear and drivers are less attentive.

As the signs of winter approach including cold, snow, sleet and wind chill factors, now is the best time to review the key factors necessary to driving through another winter weather season. If you perform the following safe driving tips and prepare a winter survival kit, you will increase your chances of avoiding major transportation or safety problems this winter.

Some of the most important safe driving tips are often the easiest to practice. Begin by clearing all snow and ice from your vehicle including the windows, hood, roof, trunk, turn signals, taillights and headlights. Before you leave your home, job or other activity remember to buckle your seatbelt. Your seatbelt will give the best chance to survive a serious collision and minimize your injuries in less serious collisions. Next, remember posted speed limits are for ideal conditions so if there is new snow/ice or limited visibility slow down to a reasonable speed and increase your following distance with other vehicles. Also, be prepared for ice on bridges, covered lane markings, stalled cars and snow plows. In the event of a skid, ease off the accelerator and apply but do not lock the brakes. Carefully steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car starts to go in the desired direction.

In addition to safe driving tips, preparing a winter survival kit can save your life. In the event of a crash or your vehicle leaving the roadway, it is usually best to remain with the vehicle rather than risking exposure or becoming lost looking for help. Some tools you want to make sure you have in your vehicle all season include an ice scraper and brush, warm winter apparel, tire traction material such as sand or cat litter, non perishable food, blankets, jumper cables, flashlights, a first aid kit, a cell phone, flares or a reflective triangle and a shovel.

Driving tasks are 90 percent mental and 10 percent physical. Distracted driving always increases your risk of a crash -- particularly in the winter when road conditions can impact reaction time. The ability to focus on winter driving tasks is essential. Drive safely, prepare a survival kit and enjoy our midwestern winter!