Winter is upon us. Somehow that means that everyone forgets how to drive in snow (even though it happens every winter) and panics while driving as slow as a snail. Conversely, it means that all 4-Wheel drive automobiles think that they can speed on sheets of ice ... did you ever notice that it's the biggest 4-Wheel drive vehicles that end up in the ditch? (Safety Note: 4-Wheel Drive DOES NOT WORK on ice; all vehicles can and will slip on solid ice).
The bottom line is that in inclement weather, it is common for all the vehicles on the road to be going much slower or faster than you are traveling. It is a perfect season to brush up on defensive driver skills. Recognizing potential hazards, deciding on an appropriate response, and carrying out that response are all keys to defensive driving.
Winter weather really highlights the fact that not everyone is a good and safe driver. To remain safe on the road, a good driver will have vigilance and awareness at all times, in any weather situation. The following are some good tips to keep you alert and cautious during any type of road conditions.
- Trust no one. Never assume that another driver is choosing a safe action, presume they don’t know how to drive, and stay sharp and defensive.
- Yield anyway. Slow down, get over, swallow your pride. Even if you feel “right,” yield anyway.
- Don't speed. Just don’t do it – 5 miles over the limit is still going too fast.
- Don't drive tired. Being tired is almost like being drunk. Pull over and rest.
- Always signal. Other drivers cannot read your mind or your intentions.
- Yellow = Stop. Never assume you can make the yellow light; assume yellow always means STOP.
- Create space. Keep a good distance between yourself and others – always have an “out.”
- Just say "no" to distracted driving. No texting, no cell phones, no electronics – eyes on the road always.
- Never drive impaired. This includes prescription medications as well as alcohol and other drugs.
For more defensive driving tips, check out this great article by Road Trip America for 70 Rules of Defensive Driving. This is a great post for business drivers and personal drivers. In fact, it is a must-read for anyone with a 16 year-old, new driver.
Kirsten Hedden is a Risk Control Representative out of our Peoria, IL Service Office. She holds a B.A. in International Relations and Business from Bradley University in Peoria. Upon graduating, Kirsten entered an intensive insurance training program with a global carrier for 14 months and obtained experience in all insurance disciplines including claims, underwriting, and loss control. Kirsten has 5+ years experience providing loss control consultative services for a variety of industry exposures; specialties include hospitality, food and beverage manufacturing, religious institutions, and country clubs/golf courses.
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