As winter storm Stella approaches, GEICO asks drivers to take extra care
WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Winter storm Stella will affect millions on the East Coast by this
evening, and GEICO
would like drivers to review this checklist to prepare for the inclement
weather.
Winter Driving Safety Checklist
-
Make sure your vehicle is visible: It can become unpleasant
having to stand out in freezing temperatures to clean off a car;
however, it’s highly important that your vehicle is visible to other
drivers. Clear all headlights and taillights, and focus on all the
windows so that you also can see properly. Drivers should note that a
vehicle’s roof needs to be cleared as well to guard against chunks of
snow flying off and potentially blinding nearby cars. -
Increase following distances: All vehicles need more distance
to stop on snow-covered and icy surfaces compared to dry roads.
Additionally, falling precipitation can significantly compromise
visibility, and drivers will need far more time to react. -
Carefully scan road surfaces: Ice makes for some of the most
dangerous driving conditions, and drivers should always remain on the
lookout for slippery patches. Ice often forms in the shadows of trees,
buildings and billboards. Ice also can form quickly on structures like
bridges and overpasses. -
Stay behind plows: Plows are busy attempting to make roads
passable for other vehicles, and the operator could miss you if you
attempt to pass. Additionally, some plows are wider than an actual
lane, creating a side-swipe risk to vehicles that try to pass. -
Consider staying off the roads: The National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends waiting to travel until the
worst weather subsides if possible. Staying off the roads allows snow
removal equipment to work more efficiently, and leads to more passable
streets once you venture out later.
When weather conditions deteriorate, remember to take it slow – the
posted speed limit could prove to be unsafe. For additional winter
weather driving tips, check out GEICO’s winter
driving survival guide.
GEICO
(Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire
Hathaway family of companies and is the second-largest private passenger
auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO, which was founded in
1936, provides millions of auto
insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually.
Contacts
GEICO Communications
gcorpcomm@geico.com
To
view GEICO’s Blog: https://www.geico.com/more/