AAA warns drivers to prepare for icy roads as first widespread winter storm hits Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- With the first widespread winter storm of the season hitting Virginia overnight Thursday into Friday, AAA is urging drivers to take extra precautions on the roads — especially during Friday’s morning and evening commutes and on Saturday when it will be a bit icy.

The timing of this storm is also raising concerns. AAA says the system could be a “double whammy,” creating problems for both the morning and evening commute. Roads may initially appear just wet but can quickly hide icy patches as temperatures hover near freezing.

Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that hazardous weather contributes to roughly 1.6 million crashes and more than 8,000 traffic-related deaths every winter nationwide.

AAA warns that drivers may be rusty, too — especially since this is the first wintry mix of the season. Experienced drivers may feel overconfident after several months without winter conditions, and younger or newly licensed drivers may have little to no experience navigating icy roads.

AAA says the most important thing drivers can do is slow down and give themselves more time and space to stop. The agency recommends allowing at least three times the normal following distance and accelerating, braking and turning gradually.

Other key reminders include:

• Watch the traffic ahead. Slow down as soon as you see brake lights, skidding vehicles, or hazard flashers.
• Never use cruise control on slippery roads.
• Avoid unnecessary lane changes, which increase the chance of hitting ice between lanes.
• Don’t power up hills. Build momentum on flat ground, then ease up the hill and descend slowly.
• Brake early when approaching intersections or known icy spots.
• Know how to handle a skid. Ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go.
• Don’t brake and turn at the same time. Brake first, turn second, accelerate last.
• Know your brakes. ABS brakes will vibrate when activated — that’s normal.
• Stay distraction-free. Put the phone down and focus only on the road.

Regardless of how much snow or ice falls from this storm, AAA recommends drivers treat this as a reminder to prepare for the winter season.

A winter emergency kit should include:

• Abrasive material (sand, cat litter, or traction mats)
• Snow shovel
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Jumper cables
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Warning triangles or flares
• Water and non-perishable snacks
• First-aid kit
• Basic tools
• Mobile phone charger and backup battery
• Extra food and supplies for infants or pets, if applicable

Drivers should also make sure their vehicle is winter-ready. That includes maintaining good tire tread and proper tire pressure — which drops as temperatures fall — checking the car battery, keeping the gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up and using winter-grade windshield washer fluid.

AAA says even a minor amount of winter precipitation is enough to create dangerous situations for unprepared drivers. The group urges Virginians to take this first storm seriously, slow down, eliminate distractions and remember: No trip is worth risking your safety or anyone else’s.