It’s the time of year when to-do lists can run long, and everyone has places they’d much rather be than on the road. That’s why a defensive approach pays off in the long run.
Holiday driving often involves driving at night since the days are short and people tend to stay as late as possible with friends and family. The distance you can see ahead and to the side is severely reduced at night. This means it takes longer to see hazards on the road or along the roadside so use high beams where appropriate. And equally important, make sure drivers can see you coming.
When the roads are wet:
- Make sure windshields are kept clean inside and out
- Ensure windshield wipers are in good condition
- Turn headlights on to low beam
- Use the air conditioner to prevent windshields from fogging up
- Don’t follow another vehicle closely in wet weather since it takes longer to stop
When driving in fog:
- Don’t put lights on high beam, lights up the fog and makes it more difficult to see
- Use fog lights if possible
- Turn on low beams to keep the light on the road
- Drive slowly and don’t follow another vehicle closely
When roads are icy:
- Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop
- Allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you
- Brake gently to avoid skidding
- Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills
- Don’t use cruise control or overdrive
- Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first
- Don’t pass snow plows and sanding trucks
We wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday season.
