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DRIVE SAFE. RIDE SMART. HAVE FUN!

Severe Weather Driving Tips

On ice or snow
  • Bridges and overpasses freeze first, so always slow down and avoid sudden changes in speed or direction.
  • Keep windows clear.
  • Keep your speed steady and slow -- but not so slow that your car gets stuck in deeper snow.
  • Use your brakes cautiously. Abrupt braking can cause brake lock-up and cause you to lose steering control.
  • To make Antilock Brakes work correctly, apply constant, firm pressure to the pedal.
  • During an emergency stop, push the brake pedal all the way to the floor, if  necessary, even in wet or icy conditions.
  • If you get stuck in snow, straighten the wheels and accelerate slowly. Avoid spinning the tires. Use sand or cinders under the drive wheels.
When driving to Bogus Basin Mountain
  • Observe speed limits.
  • Use the slow vehicle turn-outs if you are holding up 3 or more cars.
  • Do NOT pass cars. Ever!
  • Tailgating does not make traffic move faster. Allow extra time on peak days and during extreme winter driving conditions.
  • Use caution if you stop to assist other vehicles. Pull over completely, turn on your flashers and use flares to warn other drivers.
  • The road is plowed and sanded but snow tires, siped tires, 4-wheel drive or traction devices such as chains are strongly recommended.
In high winds
  • It is best not to drive a trailer, van or other "high-profile" vehicle in high winds.
  • If driving in high winds, use extra caution near trailers, vans or vehicles carrying lightweight cargo.
When it rains
  • Slow down. Roads usually prove more slippery than they would seem.
  • Turn on your headlights.
  • Use the defroster or air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear.
When it's foggy
  • Stay to the right of the roadway.
  • Turn on your headlights -- day or night -- to low beam.
  • If you can't see the road's edge, pull off on the right -- well out of the traffic lane -- and turn on the emergency flashers.
  • Wait until visibility improves before you continue.
In a Hailstorm
  • Find shelter by driving under an overpass or bridge.
In severe thunderstorms
  • Listen to your car radio and be alert.

Aggressive Driving: Asking for Trouble

Are you an aggressive driver? Do you:

  • Speed up when someone tries to pass you?
  • Tailgate people who are going slower than you?
  • Weave in and out of traffic?
  • Pass cars on the right?
  • Flash your headlights at vehicles?
  • Overuse your horn?
  • Make obscene gestures?
  • Yell out your window at people?
  • Race for a position on the highway?

Safety and preventative measures

To avoid an encounter with an aggressive driver, remember these tips:
  • Don't block the passing lane.
  • Avoid blocking the right-hand turn lane.
  • Don't take more than one parking space.
  • Don't tailgate.
  • Don't stop in the road to talk with a pedestrian or other drivers.
  • If you travel slowly, pull over to allow traffic to pass you.
  • Avoid eye contact with an aggressive driver.
  • Keep your eyes on the road.
  • Keep away from erratic drivers.
  • Don't challenge other drivers by speeding up to hold your own in your travel lane.
  • Ignore gestures; do not return them.
Additional information:
Drinking and Driving
Cell Phones and 911
Be Aware of Animals

Information provided by State Farm®