Page 30 - The Magazine of AAA Ohio Auto Club – November 2021

Warning:
Slick Roads Ahead
By Kimberly Schwind
As the days grow shorter and the weather grows colder, driving can become tricky, even for the most experienced drivers. According to AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research, winter is the deadliest season on U.S. roads.
To help keep you safe this winter, we’ve asked AAA Driver Education instructors to provide some insight on mistakes drivers make and how to safely navigate winter roads.
Driving instructors agree the biggest mistake drivers make is driving too fast for the weather conditions.
“Some road hazards are difficult to see, such as black ice,” said Kellie O’Riordan, traffic safety program manager and lead driving instructor for AAA Driver Education. “Drivers underestimate their risk on the roadways, which can end in disaster.”
Facto Photo / Shutterstock
THEIR BEST ADVICE? SLOW DOWN.
Traction can be reduced by 50% when driving in the snow, so slowing down and allowing for more stopping distance is critical. AAA’s instructors say all drivers should brush up on their winter driving skills by practicing before taking long drives in the snow or on ice. It’s important to get a feel for the reduced traction.
The AAA How to Drive curriculum encourages drivers to pay attention to the traction during every drive. To test traction, find an area free of traffic. Then, slow the vehicle to 15 mph and quickly press the brake pedal. Note if the tires begin to skid or if the anti-lock brakes engage earlier than normal. In times of low traction, drivers will need to slow their speed to maintain traction and allow for effective braking.
28 | AAA MAGAZINE
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