Roadside Chat - Why is the road wet, Todd? Slow down, Margo!
Posted on: 12/02/2022
Snow and ice season is here. At this time of year, Iowa roads can go from clear to wet to snowy to icy in a very short distance. Unless the weather is sunny and clear and pavement temperatures are above freezing, you should always be prepared for slick spots.
Here are a few tips to navigate winter roads.
- Check Iowa’s 511 system – either 511ia.org or the Iowa 511 app for current road conditions and traveler information.
- If roads are partially or completely covered with snow or ice, don’t use cruise control.
- Operate your vehicle slowly and smoothly, including braking, steering, and accelerating.
- Maintain extra distance between your vehicle and the vehicles around you. Stopping will take longer on snowy or icy roads.
- Turn on your headlights to see and be seen. You may need to use the switch and not rely on the “auto” setting.
- And most importantly – SLOW DOWN!
Check out more winter driving tips from AAA - https://youtu.be/m5LkTkW3TDY
In Iowa in 2022, there have been 316 deaths in traffic crashes. That’s an increase of 13 since last Friday. To see statistics published daily by the Office of Driver Services, go to the daily fatality report at https://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/stats/daily.pdf