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Winter Driving

Take Precautions to Stay Safe While on the Road

By Lisa Marie Metzler

Another factor to be aware of is that bridges and overpasses tend to ice up. Use extra caution while crossing them.

So you've made all the preparations and know how to drive safely, but somehow you've ended up in a snowy ditch. What now? Use the guidelines for staying safe as stated above. To stay warm while you wait, get out the blankets you've stashed in your emergency kit. If your engine is still running and you need heat, you can run the car for heat. However, consider the carbon monoxide issues first.

"Leave a window open," Tom Magliozzi says. "If you have plenty of gas, run the engine until you're warm." He also cautions, "Don't run it so often that you run out of gas. Also, if it is snowing very hard, make sure that the tail pipe is not covered with snow or it won't start." Be sure to get an estimated time of arrival from the dispatcher or trusted friend who is coming to your aid, as this will help you determine how long to run the engine for heat.

By preparing yourself and your car, you should safely arrive at Grandma's house in time for milk and cookies!