Winter is coming up fast. Get ready for rough roads ahead with driving and preparation tips.

General Winter Driving Best Practices

• Take it slow. Wet, snowy, and icy roads limit traction. Slow down and give yourself - and your vehicle - plenty of time to make the moves needed.
• Keep a safe following distance. Limited traction means your vehicle needs more time to slow down. During winter conditions, leave a little more room between you and the car in front of you.
• Use the pedals with caution. Keep a steady pace. Quick stops and starts can cause the vehicle to skid. Always brake and accelerate slowly.
• Eyes on the road. Stay focused on your surroundings. Be especially careful on ramps, bridges and overpasses, as they often become slippery from snow and ice. Don’t use cruise control in winter weather; it could lower your reaction time.
• Share the road. Give snowplows plenty of room. If you drive up on one from behind, slow down and let them finish their work.
• Adjust to changes. Keep in mind that your vehicle will handle differently loaded vs unloaded.

Seasonal Vehicle Maintenance

Prepare your fleet for winter conditions with a quality inspection:

• Windows & Mirrors—Messy roads mean a messy vehicle. Keep your windows and mirrors clear so you can see what’s happening around you.
• Battery—Cold weather can lower battery power, so it’s important to ensure the vehicle’s battery is in good shape.
• Radiator—Check that you’re using the right winter coolant and that there are no leaks.
• Lights, heater, defroster and wiper blades—Be sure these are all in good condition, especially if they haven’t been used since last winter. If these items aren’t working properly, visibility and overall safety could be compromised.
• Tires—Check tires for tread depth. Worn tires could affect the vehicle’s traction, braking, and stopping distance in icy or snowy conditions.
• Fuel tank—Try to keep the fuel tank at least half full at all times during winter. Also, consider using additives to prevent gelling in cold temperatures.