Public Safety Education Network -- PSEN Winter Driving Thoughts to Consider

Driver Pre-planning Weather forecast will prepare you. Rain, Sleet, Snow, Ice Daily temperature differences Weather forecast will prepare you. Rain, Sleet, Snow, Ice Daily temperature differences

Tires / Tire Chains

How Braking Changes See + Think = Do Braking and maintaining control challenges us This distance can also be expressed as the time it takes to stop. When you see a problem ahead while driving, it will take you about 3/4 of a second of Perception Time (See-Think) and another 3/4 of a second of Reaction Time (Do).

Braking Distance Changes Use brakes cautiously. Abrupt braking can cause brake lock- up, which causes you to lose steering control. To make antilock brakes work correctly, or work at all, you should apply constant, firm pressure to the pedal Not only do vehicles have limits, we, as drivers have limits

Engine Retarder System Some retarders can actually cause the drive wheels to lock up, stalling the engine, and in some cases result in loss of control or even cause a tractor/trailer to jackknife. An engine retarder is more efficient at a higher engine r.p.m. and a lower vehicle speed

Wet Roadway – Black Ice To stop on icy roads, use extremely light pressure on the brake to control your vehicle’s speed A slowly revolving wheel on an icy surface will be more effective than a locked wheel skidding on an icy surface Make certain tire chains are properly sized for your tires and tightly mounted

Steady and Slow Keep your speed steady and slow Speed limits are for perfect, dry conditions. On winter’s icy roadways, half the speed limit may be suicide

Encourage Crew Input Encourage others onboard to participate in the exchange of any information they think will help

Intersection Safety

Increase Following Distances

Skidding If you go into a skid, act quickly by taking your foot off the accelerator. Keep your foot off the brake and steer in the direction the rear of the vehicle is skidding. In other words, if you want your vehicle to go right, turn right. If you want it to go left, turn left. Hold the steering wheel firmly, but don’t make large turns. Use a light touch to correct the swerve.

Follow your department guidelines and procedures Incorporate manufacturer recommendations at all times This seasonal review is refresher only.

Public Safety Education Network -- PSEN Winter Driving Thoughts to Consider