As the possibility of hazardous road conditions caused by winter weather increases, the Kentucky State Police are offering motorists safe driving tips.
“Winter provides new challenges and responsibilities to the public and the Kentucky State Police,” said state police Commissioner Rodney Brewer. “We ask that drivers be prepared to meet the challenges of the upcoming winter season in Kentucky.
Plan ahead, make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, drive defensively and be sure the vehicle is properly maintained to handle the effects of cold temperatures.”
In 2008, slippery roads contributed to 15,766 crashes and 97 deaths statewide, according to state police statistics.
Lt. David Jude, commander of the state police’s highway safety branch, suggests that drivers be familiar with how their vehicle will react in snowy or icy conditions.
“Know what kind of brakes your vehicle has and how to use them properly. In general, if you have anti-lock brakes, apply firm pressure, if you have non anti-lock brakes, pump the brakes gently,” Jude said.
“If you find yourself in a skid, stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go. This procedure, known as ‘steering into the skid’ will bring the back end of your vehicle in line with the front,” he said.
The state police suggest preparing a vehicle emergency kit with supplies, including blankets, a cellular phone and charger, a first-aid kit, a windshield ice scraper, jumper cables, a tool kit, sand or cat litter, a flashlight, dried or canned food, a tire repair kit, waterproof matches, a compass and paper towels.
Police also recommend preparing vehicles for winter by checking antifreeze levels, adding winter windshield washer fluid, keeping the fuel tank filled to prevent ice build-up in fuel lines and filling tires to the manufacturer-recommended air pressure.
Motorists can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.
