Any precipitation we see overnight could be trouble for the morning commute.
This situation could be particularly dangerous because we're not expecting a whole lot of precipitation with this event. That's because when the roads are covered in ice and snow, everyone slows down. But when some areas on the road are dry, people tend to let their guard down and not drive as carefully as they should for the conditions.
It's been abnormally cold for so long, any rain or snow we receive would freeze on contact with the roads especially on bridges and overpasses.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Slow down - especially when approaching intersections, off-ramps or bridges. Bridges/overpasses are the first to freeze
- Watch your following distance. Leave plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
- Don't use cruise control in wet or wintry weather
- Brake gently to help you avoid skidding
If you feel yourself starting to skid:
- Take your foot off the accelerator and steer into the skid
- If your vehicle is sliding left, steer left
- If it's sliding right, steer right
- If you have standard brakes, pump them gently
- If you have antilock brakes, don't pump them. Instead, apply steady pressure to the brakes
Before you head out Friday morning, its also a good idea to check your vehicle's tires, brakes, and fluids to make sure they're in good condition.
