Slow Down

Slow Down Alaska. It is much harder to control or stop your vehicle on a slick or snow-covered surface. Always remember that you are not the only one on the road. Avoid hard breaks and never speed into turns. Drivers must give snowplows, large trucks, and emergency vehicles even more space than normal.

Reduce your speed to make up for the lower traction when driving on snow or ice. Slowly accelerate and decelerate to help regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t try to get moving too quickly and take extra time to slow down for every stoplight as it takes longer to on icy roads. Increase your following distance behind other cars to provide the longer distance needed if you have to stop.

Be Prepared For Alaska Winter Roads

Also, at the beginning of declining temperatures, drivers should ensure that they have the proper tires for the expected weather. Inspect tires, batteries, brakes, and headlights before driving. Further, drivers should check that they have de-icing windshield wiper fluid, as well as new wiper blades.

Lastly, be prepared for any emergency. The temperatures during winter can drop to a staggering -40° F. If you are stranded in these temperatures it is of paramount importance that you have a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Items such as jumper cables, tow straps and flashlights are a definite must. Also, all vehicles should have extra blankets and water, as well as both tool and first aid kits.

Be Careful on Hills

Don’t power up hills while driving Alaska winter roads. Applying extra gas on roads covered with snow just causes your wheels spin. Try to get some inertia going before reaching the hill and allow that inertia to carry you to the top. As you near the top of a hill, reduce your speed and continue down the hill slowly. Don’t stop while driving up a hill.

Use Your Brakes Correctly On Alaska Winter Roads

Whether you have anti-lock brakes or not, keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. If you can avoid it, don’t stop. There’s a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling while driving in winter weather.

Today’s Safety Tips For Winter Driving is Part 4 of a five blog series. For more Safe Driving Tips, see: Safe Driving Tips for Alaskans; Safer Driving At Night; Safe Driving Tips For Older Drivers; and Driving the AlCan in Winter.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Sources: Alaska Department of Transportation; Alaska 511; AAA

Image Source: Your Alaska Link