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By Sheena Roszell

AMA winter driving tips

Nov 1, 2017 | 9:28 AM

The snow has arrived and that means so have winter driving conditions.

Ron Wilson, who is the Manager of Driver Education for the Alberta Motor Association, says many drivers don’t adjust when the weather first changes and in the first day or two there are a lot of collisions that could have been prevented.

“Always make sure you clean the snow off your lights and windows.  You want to see and be seen by other drivers as well,” explained Wilson. “Also, plan your trips.  Never be in a rush.”

Wilson says if you hit ice and your vehicle starts to slide, take the foot off the gas, don’t touch the brake, look and steer where you want the vehicle to go.

“Another very basic thing to do is steer properly.  Keep two hands on the wheel.  Hands at the nine and three position will give you the most control.”

When driving in snowy conditions, he says you need to be sure to look well ahead.

“In the city, you want to look at least a block and a half ahead.  If you’re driving out on the highway look about 3/4 of a kilometre ahead and if you can’t see far ahead then you need to slow down,” he said.  “You also want to increase your space or your following distance…so give yourself at least a four to six second following distance when you’re driving behind other traffic.”

And he says make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road in the winter.

“Make sure your tires are properly inflated, all your fluids are up…wipers are in good repair … all your lights are working.”

He also suggests you leave yourself extra time for travelling when road conditions can be poor and check the highway conditions online before you head out.

by Sheena Roszell