Driving on snowy or icy roads requires special attention
to safety. Although it's impossible to have ideal road conditions
365 days a year, there are certain precautions you can take
to make winter driving safer. Here are some tips and suggestions
to help you get ready for the hazards of winter.
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Before the Trip
- Winterize your car with fresh antifreeze, a good battery,
a properly operating exhaust system and oil that will
withstand the rigors of cold weather.
- If possible, avoid driving until the roads are cleared
and treated. You don't want to slide off the road, and
we don't want to plow around disabled vehicles.
- Do a thorough pretrip inspection of your vehicle, paying
special attention to your tires, brakes, windshield wipers
and windshield wiper fluid.
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Equip Your Vehicle With:
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A firstaid kit with a pocket knife
- Necessary medications
- Blankets and/or sleeping bags
- Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear
- A small sack of sand to use for traction under your wheels
- A small shovel
- Booster cables
- Small tools - pliers, wrench, screwdriver
- A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
- Nonperishable foods
- Bottled water
- Matches and candles
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During the Trip
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Obey speed limits; don't speed.
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Use common sense, and adjust your speed
to suit driving conditions
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Give snowplows plenty of room, and don't
pass them.
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Always wear your seat belt.
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Remember that driving is most dangerous
when temperatures are near 32 degrees.
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Watch for other vehicles having problems
with road conditions.
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Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean;
keep your lights on.
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Don't pass other vehicles on or near
bridges.
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Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
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If you don't feel comfortable driving,
park at the first safe place.
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If You're Trapped in
Your Car
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Stay in the vehicle. Don't leave to
search for help. It's easy to become disoriented and
lost in blowing and drifting snow.
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Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly
colored cloth on the antenna.
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Run the engine for about 10 minutes
each hour. Run the heater and turn on the dome light
only when the vehicle is running.
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Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow,
and open a window slightly for ventilation.
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Clap hands and move your arms and legs
occasionally. Don't stay in one position for too long.
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If more than one person is in the car,
take turns sleeping.
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Huddle together for warmth.
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Use newspapers, maps and even car mats
for added insulation.
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Call 1-888 Ask
MODOT to receive road condition updates during regular
business hours. |
| Learn more about MoDOT's
snowplowing operation and get tips on keeping your driveway
clear and winter driving by following the links below.
Road Conditions
Go here to see a map of road conditions for major Missouri
routes
Who's First? MoDOT's
Plowing Priorities
How does MoDOT decide whose road gets plowed first?
How to Keep Your Driveway
Clear
There is a right way to shovel your driveway |
