AAA provides safe driving tips ahead of expected winter storm

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Ahead of the expected winter storm, AAA is urging drivers to stay off the roads if possible. For those who must travel, the association has provided tips for preparation and safe driving.

Before driving, AAA recommends taking the following steps during a winter storm:

• Remove ice or snow from your vehicle. Take time to remove the snow from the entire vehicle so it doesn’t blow onto your windshield or the windshields of other drivers. Clear windows, mirrors and lights to have a 360-degree view around the vehicle.
• Make sure windshield wipers and defrosters are in good working order. Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a winter cleaning solution that has antifreeze components to prevent it from freezing. Turn on your headlights to be seen by other drivers.

The association advised that drivers take the following steps while on the roads:

• Increase following distance, since a larger area between vehicles can prevent crashes.
• Pay attention. It’s never okay to drive distracted, but during inclement weather, when visibility can be diminished due to precipitation, drivers need to be focused. Watch other vehicles. Actions by other drivers will alert you to problems and give you extra seconds to react.
• Drive slowly and with caution. Drivers who move cautiously are more likely to maintain control of their vehicle, and if control is lost, driving at a lower speed often results in a less severe incident.
• Beware of bridges and overpasses. Bridges, areas under them and overpasses freeze faster than other road surfaces.
• Don’t use cruise control in precipitation and freezing temperatures.
• If your tires lose traction, steer in the direction you want to go. If the drive wheels start to spin or slide while going up a hill, ease off the accelerator slightly and then gently resume speed.
• Know your car. Guard against SUV overconfidence. SUVs have the same difficulty keeping control and stopping as other vehicles.