With the winter months here, there will be plenty of snow, sleet, and ice on the roadways. These winter weather conditions can create hazardous situations for driving. Because winter weather conditions can create additional hazards while driving, additional preparation before a trip can help to make the trip safer or help you in an emergency situation. Here are some tips to help make your next drive a safe one.

To prepare for a road trip during winter weather conditions you should:

• Check your car to make sure it is in good condition before departing. You should check the battery, the tires, your windshield wipers and antifreeze.
• It is a good idea to have an emergency kit inside your vehicle. This kit should include things such as a flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, blankets, food and water. It is also a good idea to carry a cellphone with you, especially for long trips.
• Plan the route you will take to get to your destination in advance. This can help to make the drive less stressful, especially if winter weather hits. You should also give yourself extra time to arrive to your destination, so you do not find yourself in a rush.
• Clean off your vehicle before driving. It is very important that you remove all snow and ice from the windows, sensors, headlights and taillights. By ensuring that your vehicle is clean, you prevent snow and ice from flying off your vehicle. Additionally, you increase your visibility to others by ensuring that your lights are cleaned off.

While driving, there are some steps you can take to help keep yourself safe on the roadways:

• Always wear a seat belt.
• Never drink alcohol or use drugs before driving. This is incredibly dangerous not only for you, but for others as well.
• If there are winter weather conditions, you should slow your speed and increase following distances between you and the car in front of you. This is important for cases where you have to stop suddenly, as stopping takes longer when you are traveling fast and when there are adverse road conditions.
• Avoid distracted driving activities. Using your cellphone or eating while driving take your attention away from the roadway, which can contribute to an accident.

By following these tips, you can help to make the roadways safer for everyone. Because winter weather can make driving significantly more difficult, it is important to prepare and take the appropriate measures to help ensure your next trip is a safe one.