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How to be a Good Driver in Unfavorable Weather Conditions
Megan Cooper, Corner Post Reporter

As winter weather has found its way into Columbia, road conditions have become less than favorable. Many people don't have much experience driving on snowy or icy roads, and those that do get frustrated at those who don't. Already this year there have been several accidents in the Columbia area. So, to ensure that everyone is on the same page, here are some tips to help make everyone a good driver in unfavorable winter weather conditions.

"Some of us may need a bit of a refresher in good driving habits," Karen Funkenbusch, CAFNR's safety specialist, said. "With a little knowledge and patience, you can keep yourself, friends, and family members safe this winter."

The first thing you want to do at the start of winter is "WINTERIZE" YOUR VEHICLE. This includes fresh antifreeze, a good battery, a proper exhaust system, chains for your tires or winter tires, good wiper blades and fluid. Inside your vehicle you should have a flashlight with extra batteries, blanket(s), first- aid kit with a pocket knife, jumper cables, window scraper, non-perishable food and bottled water. And remember, your gas tank should always be at least half full when driving in bad weather.

The second thing you need to do is SLOW DOWN! Don't try to travel at normal fair weather speeds. Snowy/Icy roads make it very difficult to stop quickly. Slowing down will prevent you from rear ending a person or losing control of your vehicle.

"Stopping distances should be doubled," Funkenbusch said.

Also make sure that you allow plenty of time to get to where you are going. I recommend allowing yourself an extra 30-45 minutes.

The next tip is to AVOID SUDDEN BRAKING. When applying the brakes on a vehicle equipped with conventional brakes avoid locking them up by pumping them every few feet before you need to stop. If your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, apply the amount of brake pressure needed and don't pump them.

The fourth thing you need to do is LEARN HOW TO CONTROL A SKID. To do this, make sure there is plenty of distance between your vehicle and others. Avoid sudden braking and slow down before entering turns or bends. If the rear end of your vehicle begins to skid, turn the steering wheel into the skid in the same direction the rear end is sliding. If your front wheels are sliding, hold the wheel straight and let the skid correct itself.

The next thing you need to do is MAINTAIN TIRE PRESSURE. Changes in outside temperature can affect your tires' pressure. Under inflation of your tires' causes them to wear faster, and can alter handling and fuel efficiency. Always maintain tire pressure at the manufacturer's recommended level. This can be found in your owner's manual or inside the doorjamb.

Also, make sure that you DON'T SPIN YOUR WHEELS! If your vehicle is stuck in snow, ice or mud, avoid spinning your tires. Don't accelerate rapidly because it will only dig your vehicle in deeper. Spinning your tires causes excessive heat build-up. This forms a thin film of water on top that makes ice even more slippery and may result in personal injury or damage to your vehicle.

Lastly, USE EXTRA CAUTION ON BRIDGES AND OVERPASSES. Freestanding structures are more prone to ice accumulation since cold air is circulating beneath them. These also take the longest for road crews to get cleaned off.

Above all, USE COMMON SENSE. If you're not comfortable driving in winter weather, avoid driving. Remember that first time drivers and elderly are at the highest risk of getting into a weather related accident. Since you don't know who is experienced at driving in winter weather conditions and who isn't, be cautious of everyone.

Just remember to be smart and take it slow; and you'll be just fine! Oh yeah, and BUCKLE UP!

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