By SHEALYN PRATT
With extreme weather affecting road conditions, officials shared information outlining steps drivers can take to prepare vehicles to travel safely.
As winter weather approaches our region, it is important for motorists to take caution while using their vehicles.
Whether it’s snow or sleet, harsh winter conditions can be troubling to tackle.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are over 745,000 weather-related crashes each year.
“Preparing yourself and your vehicle for winter weather is key.” The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said in its winter weather driving tips.
Officials recommend slowing down and increasing your following distance behind other vehicles, noting that slick or snow-covered roads significantly increase stopping distance.
In the event that a vehicle becomes stalled the NHTSA advises drivers to remain in their car.
Motorists should let their vehicle be visible with bright markers and wait. Markers such as your hazard lights, emergency markers, flares or just the interior dome light.
It is important to be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning as you wait.
Be sure that the exhaust pipe is clear of any snow and run your car just long enough to stay warm.
Start it only sporadically.
It is important to keep your car stocked with common driving-related supplies that you may need in an emergency.
Things like an ice scraper, jumper cables, flashlight, first aid kit and blankets.
Alongside abrasive material, in case your vehicle gets stuck in deep snow, like sand or kitty litter.
The temperature is not the only thing that you will see dropping.
As the outside temperature falls, so does tire pressure.
Inspect your tires frequently to ensure that each tire has the correct tire inflation pressure that is aligned with the recommended pressure.
Each vehicle is different, so it is important to check your vehicle manufacturers recommendation in the owners manual.
Battery power is also something that you will be seeing drops in as it gets colder.
In weather like recent conditions, gasoline and diesel engines both take more battery power to start.
Most mechanics offer free battery checks.
“Make sure you have plenty of fuel. Keep your gas tanks full and do not run your car anymore than you have to,” said David Kenyon, a mechanic at Garnett Oil.
Garnett Oil is located right across the street from the Ranger statue on campus and offers free services ranging from free tire pressure and battery checks to fluid top-offs.
With winter conditions expected to persist, the NHTSA officials say that taking precautions like these will help drivers avoid collisions and breakdowns.
Even if the weather isn’t as harsh as it was over this weekend, it is vital to be cautious.