It’s especially difficult to drive in the winter, even more so when there’s a blizzard. Angelenos would normally not have to worry about driving in such situations. After all, they reside in sunny Southern California. Why would they have to worry about driving under such conditions?
However, a blizzard warning was issued in Los Angeles just recently, and people living in the mountains around Los Angeles need to be extra cautious when driving towards their destinations.
Indeed, It’s important that you’re driving as safely as you possibly can when you do drive amid the high winds and chilly temperatures. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones while this blizzard is still upon us:
- Slow down: Driving in a blizzard requires cruising down the road at slow speeds in order to keep yourself and your passengers safe. Pumping your accelerator during these situations can make you lose control of your car and heighten your risk of being in an accident. Be sure you drive at a speed that will allow you to keep control of your car.
- Distance yourself from other cars on the road: When on the road, it’s essential that you increase your following distance when driving in a snowstorm to at least 6 seconds. This will give you enough time to respond just in case the car in front of you suddenly stops or slows down.
- Use your headlights: When traveling through a blizzard, turn your headlights on at all times. It will not only improve your vision of the road but also increase your visibility to other motorists.
- Do not use cruise control: Cruise control can cause your car to speed when you don’t want it to. Instead, keep your feet on the pedals to keep control of your car.
- Do not press on the brakes too hard: Avoid slamming on the brakes. Doing so could result in you losing control of your car. Instead, apply steady, deliberate braking to slow down your car.
- Have an emergency kit in your car: It’s crucial to have an emergency kit in your car in case you become stranded on the road. A blanket, food, water, and a flashlight should be included.
- To stay informed, check the weather and road conditions before you get behind the wheel. If the weather is very awful, think about postponing your trip until the weather gets better.
- If you do manage to lose control of your car, don’t freak out. Instead, let off the gas and turn the wheel in the desired direction.
- Remain at home: We highly recommend that you stay at home and completely avoid driving altogether. In a snowstorm, only drive if it is absolutely necessary.
In conclusion, driving in a snowstorm can be extremely dangerous. However, heeding these safety recommendations may decrease your chance of being involved in an accident and stay safe on the road. Be sure to slow down, increase your following distance, use your headlights, avoid using cruise control, be ready by keeping an emergency kit in your car, stay informed, maintain your composure, and, if the weather is very terrible, stay at home. Safe travels!