Safe Winter Driving Tips

Drive according to road conditions

* Slow Down: Driving too fast on wintry roads is the leading cause of crashes.
* Travel at a safe distance of at least 3 car lenghts, leaving plenty of room to stop.
* Do not crowd slow moving maintenace and emergency vehicles.
* Do not use cruise control whilr driving in a storm.
* Do not overestimate the capabilities of your four-wheel drive vehicle.
* Clear all snow and ice from the vehicle prior to travel.
* Be aware of black ice on what appears to be bare pavement.

SLOW DOWN AND BUCKLE UP!

Winter Travel

The State of Vermont's "Safe Roads at Safe Speeds" policy divides Vermont's state highway into three levels of service.

Suggested maximum driving speed during a winter storm:
Interstate system: 45 MPH
US/State Highways: 40 MPH
Rural or lightly traveled state highways: 35 MPH

These speed limits are "suggested" only. Always exercise caution and drive according to road and weather conditions.

Vermont's 511 System

511 is Easy to Use
Dial 511 or go to www.511vt.com

* Available 24 hours a day / seven days a week.
* Voice recognition
* Winter roads conditions
* Road construction, maintenance and incident information
* Covers all interstate and most major routes
* Normal airtime and roaming charges apply to wireless callers

Be Prepared - Pack A Winter Car Kit
* Booster Cables
* Two or more blankets
* Candles & Matches
* Snow Shovel and scraper
* Flashlight and extra batteries
* Extra clothing: cap, mittens,parka, and overshoes or boots in case you have to walk
for help. High calorie, non-perishable food like candy and canned nuts
* Sand or strips of carpet for traction
* Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
* Flares or reflectors

Properly Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving
* Winter tires
* Wipers and washer fluid
* Heaters and defrosters
* Properly adjusted brakes
* Ensure battery and charging system operate properly
* Carry tire chains for large trucks

Recommendations
* Keep your gas tank 2/3 full to prevent the fuel line from freezing
* Whenever possible, plan your trip during daylight hours
* Check weather and road conditions before you leave
* Remove ice and snow from windows, license plates and lights, and be sure to
clear snow from the vehicle's hood, roof and trunck area.

These tips are provided by: The Vermont Department of Public Safety. www.dps.state.vt.us