December 2001
Winter driving 

Colonel Kenneth L. Morckel
Superintendent
Ohio State Highway Patrol

Ohio’s winter weather can increase the driving dangers on our highways. Winter driving skills are used only a few months each year, so it is important to remind drivers to prepare for snow and ice on the roadways.

Safety should always be a priority when traveling in a motor vehicle. During winter months, increased attention to safe-driving techniques is critical. The Patrol has a few tips for drivers to help keep Ohio roadways safe in the winter months to come.

Greater following distances and slower speeds are important in winter weather because icy roadways can triple stopping distances. On ice or snow-covered roads, be sure to accelerate slowly to prevent traction loss. Passing lanes are not typically maintained as well as driving lanes during bad weather, so it is important to pass with care.

Ice on the roads may not always be visible, and the smallest patch can pose a big problem. If your vehicle begins to skid, resist the temptation to hit the brakes. Instead, take your foot off the gas pedal and steer into the direction of the skid.

A skid can result in a complete loss of vehicle control, which could lead to an injury-causing crash. Always wear a safety belt to reduce the risk of a serious injury or death in a crash. Buckling up only takes a couple of seconds, but it could mean the difference between life and death.

It is more important than ever during winter months to comply with Ohio’s law to slow down and move to the left lane when passing emergency vehicles on the highway. Slick road conditions increase the danger of crashing into stopped emergency vehicles.

The best advice for winter driving is simply to slow down and avoid unnecessary risks. In addition, if you plan to drink at holiday parties, designate a driver or make other travel arrangements.

When considering a trip during a winter storm ask yourself, "Is this trip really necessary?" If the trip cannot be delayed or canceled, be sure to check the road and weather conditions along the route before departing.

Check the Patrol's toll-free road and weather conditions hotline at 1-888-2OH-ROAD (1-888-264-7623) for current travel conditions for major routes and all Ohio counties. The Patrol’s Web site at is also a helpful resource. Several road and weather information links are available to help motorists plan the safest routes and times to travel.

Before leaving on any road trip let someone know the details of your trip, including destination, anticipated travel routes, and expected arrival time. Telephone that individual once you arrive at your destination.

It is also very important to prepare your vehicle for winter travel. There is much more to consider than if your tires are ready for snow and ice. Follow your vehicle’s suggested manufacturer maintenance schedule and make sure the brakes and transmission are working properly. Regularly check the wipers, tires, lights, and fluid levels and apply lock lubricant on door and trunk locks to prevent freezing.

Keep a winter car kit in your vehicle because despite the most careful planning, vehicle breakdowns do occur. Winter car kit items should include: jumper cables; flares or roadway reflectors; flashlight and extra batteries; windshield washer fluid; small shovel; ice scraper; antifreeze; instant tire inflater; blanket; non-perishable foods; candle; matches; "help" sign; and a first-aid kit.

There are several things to do in the event of a vehicle breakdown in winter weather. Pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible, open the hood, and turn on hazard lights. Place a "help" sign in the rear window, and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives.

Do not leave your car to walk in search of help during a winter storm. The risk of getting caught in the storm, or getting into another dangerous situation is too high. It is much safer to wait in your vehicle until assistance arrives.

Remember to call the Patrol toll-free at 1-877-7-PATROL to report disabled vehicles, or for assistance if your vehicle is broken down.

Attention to safety while driving is even more important during the difficult winter weather conditions we face in Ohio.

It’s about safety!