AAA Offers Tips for Cold Weather Driving

Slow down on snow and ice covered roads; know what type of braking system you have and how to apply brakes properly (for example, don't bump anti-lock brakes); make gentle stops and starts to prevent skids.

Salem-News.com

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - A wintry mix of snow, sleet and/or freezing rain is forecast down to the Willamette Valley floor for tonight and tomorrow, so AAA Oregon/Idaho warns drivers to be prepared for winter driving conditions.

"Make sure your car is prepared for winter weather, make sure you’re prepared to cope with colder temperatures and hazardous road conditions, and take it easy behind the wheel," says AAA Oregon/Idaho Public Affairs Director Marie Dodds.

"Treacherous conditions on a busy Saturday during the holiday season could really cause problems for drivers. In addition, we're expecting a lot of traffic on I-5 and in Corvallis Saturday for the 6A, 5A and 4A High School Football State Championship games at Reser Stadium."

During the past week, sub-freezing temperatures have resulted in a higher call volume to AAA Oregon/Idaho. Calls for roadside assistance are running from 20 to 60 percent higher than normal. Most requests for service have been for dead batteries.

Following are a few tips to help you face winter driving conditions from Earl Baker, AAA Oregon/Idaho Approved Auto Repair Coordinator:

*Car Preparation: Be sure the battery is fully charged; check all fluid levels, including anti-freeze; check ignition wiring; be sure all lights operate properly; be sure tires and brakes are in good condition; and be sure the windshield wipers and washer work properly. Most importantly, try to keep the fuel tank at least half full at all times. Adding weight in the back of rear drive vehicles, including pick-ups, will improve traction.

*Winter Driving Kit: In emergencies, the following items are invaluable: tire chains, abrasive material such as sand or kitty litter, a small shovel, a flashlight, an ice scraper, rags or paper towels, blankets, flares or other warning devices, and booster cables. Pack bottled water and some snacks, such as energy bars. And be sure your mobile phone is fully charged before you hit the road.

*Drive Smart: Slow down on snow and ice covered roads; know what type of braking system you have and how to apply brakes properly (for example, don't bump anti-lock brakes); make gentle stops and starts to prevent skids; dress according to weather conditions; and let others know your travel plans, including destination, route, and expected time of arrival so they can alert authorities if you don't make it to your destination.

Many newer vehicles have traction control systems. You can use traction devices, such as snow tires and/or chains, on these vehicles, but you need to apply the traction devices on all four wheels, as each wheel has the job of acquiring traction through the brake system and each wheel needs to be treated equally.

Source: AAA.com.

• Willamette Valley (I-5)
• Cascade Central (US20)
• North Oregon Coast Cameras (US101)