| With winter weather forecast for parts of Texas, AAA Texas is urging drivers to use extra caution and remember that winter driving conditions can quickly become dangerous. When roads are icy, the safest option is to stay off them whenever possible. Even small amounts of ice can significantly reduce traction, especially on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and rural roads that may not be treated as frequently. Drivers who must travel should plan ahead, monitor local forecasts, and allow extra time to reach their destination. If You Must Drive, Prepare Your Vehicle First Clear visibility and proper vehicle maintenance are critical in winter conditions: - Clean all windows and mirrors before driving and remove all snow and ice from the vehicle.
- Ensure windshield wipers and defrosters are working properly.
- Use headlights at all times to improve visibility.
Tires Play a Critical Role in Winter Safety AAA Texas and Discount Tire stress that well-maintained tires are essential for traction and control on cold, wet, or icy roads: - Check tire pressure regularly when tires are cold.
- Ensure tread depth is at least 4/32 of an inch; worn tires significantly reduce stopping ability.
- Replace tires six years old or older, as aging rubber loses grip and strength.
Driving Safely on Winter Roads - Slow down and allow at least three times more following distance than usual.
- Brake gently and avoid sudden steering or acceleration.
- Never use cruise control on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads.
- Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and rural roads, which freeze first and may not be treated.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Starts to Skid Even careful drivers can lose traction on icy roads. If your vehicle begins to skid: - Stay calm and avoid slamming on the brakes.
- Ease off the accelerator.
- Look and steer gently in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go.
- Continue steering until you regain control
If You Need to Pull Off the Road - Exit to a rest area or parking lot when possible instead of stopping on the shoulder.
- Follow Texas’ Slow Down, Move Over law when approaching emergency vehicles or tow trucks with flashing lights.
Have a Roadside Emergency Plan Before You Go Winter weather can quickly lead to breakdowns, crashes, or road closures. AAA Texas encourages drivers to have a roadside emergency plan in place before traveling: - Know who to call for help if your vehicle becomes disabled.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving and keep a charging cable in the vehicle.
- Carry a winter emergency kit with items such as water, warm clothing or blankets, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
- AAA members can use the AAA Mobile app to request roadside assistance, track help in real time, and get updates if conditions worsen.
Having a plan in place can reduce stress and help keep drivers and passengers safe if they become stranded in cold conditions. Additional Safety Reminders - Always wear a seatbelt.
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed space.
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow and ice.
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full during winter weather.
About AAA: AAA provides more than 65 million members with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through its federation of independently owned motor clubs and nearly 1,000 branch offices across North America. Since 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the motorist and safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. AAA Texas branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. |
