WINTER DRIVING TIPS
The Iowa State Patrol recommends these tips when traveling on roadways when Winter weather conditions may be present:
- Keep windshields clear - Scrape snow and ice to ensure full visibility.
- Increase following distance - Put five to six seconds of time between you and the vehicle you're following - especially snow plows.
- Be patient - Allow more time - and daylight when possible - to get to your destination, and remember that detouring through a median can cause problems.
- Always pay attention to the road - Traffic flow can change instantly and braking times increase dramatically with snow or ice.
- Add braking time to exit freeways and interstates - Exits and overpasses get slick during winter events and require even more braking time.
- Know when to skip cruise control - Don't use cruise control on snow and ice conditions.
- Prepare a winter survival kit - The items below will help you endure an emergency or road closure until help arrives.
- Cellphone & Charger
- Full Tank of Fuel
- Warm Clothes, Winter Coat, Boots, & Gloves
- Water & Snacks
- Jumper Cables
- Flashlight with batteries
- Ice Scraper & Snow Brush
- First Aid Kit
- Music & Games
- Turn on headlights - It's critical to be seen on snowy and foggy days.
- Stay up-to-date on weather, road conditions, & closures - Before you head out check live road conditions, closures, & more at 511ia.org