Winter Weather Driving Tips

February 12, 2010

To celebrate the record breaking snowfall in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, I thought it would be appropriate to go over some basic winter driving tips for the current road conditions. I know sometimes we all need a refresher on how to avoid a car crash in winter weather, since we are not used to having snow in North Texas.

Here are some Winter Weather driving tips from the Texas Department of Public Safety:

•Remember that ice forms first on bridges, overpasses and shady areas. If you hit a patch of ice, stay off your brakes and decelerate slowly, holding the car steady as you go over the ice.

•Speed is the main problem with driving on ice. Adjust your speed to fit the weather conditions. Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you.

•If your car goes into a skid, take your foot off the gas pedal but don’t hit the brake. Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go. As the car straightens out, you will be able to regain traction and control.

•Check your car battery before cold weather sets in. Battery power dips in cold weather.

•Keep the gasoline level as high as possible to prevent water condensation in the tank.

It is also important to stay updated with your local news station about changing road conditions. I hope everyone is having fun and taking advantage of the winter wonderland around the DFW metroplex. Be sure to stay warm and follow these tips to avoid a car accident while driving on the snowy roads.

This information is provided by Fort Worth, TX Injury Lawyer Mark Anderson, who can be reached in Dallas at 214-327-8000, in Fort Worth at 817-294-1900, or by clicking here.