Full Notification

Aggressive Winter Driving – Too Fast for Conditions

More than 7,700 motorists in Pennsylvania learned first-hand the dangers of aggressive driving on snowy, slushy or ice-covered roadways last year. That’s how many crashes resulted from motorists speeding, tailgating or making careless lane changes during adverse weather conditions.

To increase safety during the winter months, PennDOT will be working with the Eastern Pike Regional Police Department, other local departments, and the Pennsylvania State Police to undertake an aggressive driving campaign focused on driving too fast for conditions. This winter, please keep these driving tips in mind so that you can stay safe and ticket-free:

• Slow Down. The most important thing to remember when driving in winter weather is that you must do everything more slowly than usual. Rapid movements can lead to a loss of control. Even if you are traveling at or under the posted speed limit, you can still be cited for driving too fast for conditions in bad weather.
• Increase the Space Between Vehicles. Tailgating is a bad idea in even the best of weather conditions. The distance required to stop under slick conditions is much greater than what’s needed under normal driving circumstances. Experts recommend leaving double or triple the usual distance between vehicles. It’s also important to anticipate increased braking time when approaching intersections and stops.
• Know Your Car. Knowing how to handle your vehicle - how to apply the brakes in a skid, for instance – is important.
• Stay Calm. Inclement conditions often mean that traveling well under the speed limit is necessary. Getting frustrated and driving aggressively is not likely to save you time. It’s also important to not panic if you start to slide on ice. Steer the wheel in the direction you want the front end to go to straighten your vehicle.
• Be Vigilant. You need every bit of your mind on driving when navigating winter roads. Steer clear of all distractions like phones, changing the radio and eating. Be ready to ask someone else to drive if you’re tired, have been drinking or are impaired in any way.
• Buckle Up. The safest, most competent driver in the world can still get hit by the other motorist. Buckling up is the best way to protect yourself in a crash.

For more winter driving safety tips, download PennDOT’s Ice and Snow, Take It Slow brochure or request a copy by contacting the PennDOT Press Office at [email protected].

Do you think you know all about winter driving safety? Test your knowledge with our Winter Safe Driver Quiz (http://www.drivesafepa.org/Winter-Safe-Driver-Quiz/).