Last weekend, a crowd gathered to watch a groundhog emerge from its hole in western Pennsylvania. On February 2nd, Punxsutawney Phil came out and saw his shadow, signaling six more weeks of winter, but no one was prepared for just how accurate his prediction would be. Or how it would affect winter driving conditions.
Here in the Rogue Valley, Oregon, we’ve been enjoying warm, sunny days in late January. That is until, on Monday, February 3rd, residents woke up to a snow storm blanketing the valley in white. While Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions are cheeky fun, he only has about a 30% accuracy rate, and normally has even less bearing on our Mediterranean climate here in Southern Oregon. But, this year the woodchuck seems to have tapped into an unprecedented winter front.
The Rogue Valley normally gets about 4 total inches of snow in the winter on the valley floor, but on February 3rd alone we had 6.3 inches fall earning the fifth highest recorded single-day snowfall in Medford history. And we weren’t alone, with winter storms sweeping across northern states, closing down roads, and providing kids with free days off from school. While the kids might have loved it, the sudden weather change made for some seriously hazardous driving conditions.
What is Winter Weather Driving?
Winter driving involves navigating road conditions that can be impacted by snow, sleet, or ice. Understanding how these conditions affect driving and how your car handles could be a lifesaver. 24% of weather related vehicle accidents during winter weather conditions like snow, sleet and ice. Whether you’re driving in light snowfall or during a heavy winter storm, knowing what to expect will help you stay alert and make informed decisions.
When areas experience record snowfall, the roads become dangerous. Even a few inches of snow can make roads slippery, and with more significant snowfall, visibility can decrease. Snow drifts on roads can create ruts that pull your vehicle out of its travel path and can also get you stuck. Fast winds can push your car and increase the risk of slipping.
The combination of snow weight and fast winds on trees can cause them to drop limbs or fall altogether. Tree fall damage is dangerous and costly for motorists, especially when combined with reduced visibility and control of the vehicle. Think about it: trees are more likely to fall, you’re less likely to see it happening until you’re in a hazard zone, and your car is more likely to slip and slide when you slam on your brakes. Sounds like a recipe for winter driving disaster, right?
Essential Winter Driving Safety Tips
Here are seven essential tips to help you drive safely when Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow:
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Before heading out, make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving. Check your battery, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. Consider using tire chains, which are designed to provide better traction in snowy and icy conditions. Also, ensure your windshield wipers are functioning correctly and replace them if needed.
- Know Your Route: Planning your route is essential for winter driving. Use navigation apps, like TripCheck, to check for road conditions and closures. If possible, avoid routes that are known to be dangerous or prone to heavy traffic. Always have an alternative route in mind, should you need to change your plans due to poor conditions. And, let someone know where you’re route and timeline, so they can send help if something happens.
- Adjust Your Driving Style: When driving in winter weather, it’s important to adjust your driving style. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Every year, driving too fast for the conditions end up in the top 5 causes for accidents. This allows you more time to react to any sudden changes in conditions or traffic. Smooth, gentle movements of the steering wheel, brakes, and accelerator can help maintain control of your vehicle.
- Keep an Emergency Kit: Always have an emergency kit in your car. This kit should include items like blankets, a flashlight, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, and a portable phone charger. Having these supplies can be a lifesaver if you become stranded in severe winter weather.
- Use Proper Tires: Equip your vehicle with proper winter tires that provide better traction on snow and ice compared to regular tires. Even if you aren’t able to put on chains right away, the additional tractions of these specialty tires can help keep you in control. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, consider getting all-season tires designed for winter performance. Make sure to check the air pressure in your tires regularly, as cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop.
- Keep Your Gas Tank Full: During winter driving, it’s a good idea to keep your gas tank at least half-full. This helps to prevent your fuel lines from freezing and ensures that you have enough fuel in case you get stuck and need to run the engine for heat. It also gives you the flexibility to travel without worrying about running out of gas.
- Stay Informed on Weather Conditions: Before you set out on any trip, check the weather forecast and stay informed about road conditions. If the weather is severe, consider postponing your trip or using public transportation if possible. Being aware of current conditions will help you make safer choices on when and how to travel.
Bonus Tip: Insurance Coverage for Winter Driving
During winter, accidents happen more frequently due to the challenging conditions. Having the right car insurance coverage can save you from a lot of stress and expenses if something happens. Liability car insurance coverage is a required coverage for operating a vehicle, and covers damages you may cause to others in an accident. For winter driving, that just means, for example, if your brakes lock up and you rear end someone, you’re not solely responsible for what happened to their car.
But what about your car? To protect your vehicle from a traffic accident in the snow, you’ll want to add collision coverage to your policy. Or, if you’re worried about those falling trees or anything else the snow might do to your car, you should consider comprehensive insurance to protect against weather damage, as well as theft or vandalism.
Finding affordable personal auto insurance is essential for all drivers, especially during the winter season. Here are some tips to help you save on insurance:
- – Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rates. Or, talk to a professional insurance broker who specializes in auto insurance. They can help guide you to the best coverage and prices for all your needs.
- – Bundle Policies: Consider bundling your car insurance with other types of insurance, such as home or renters insurance, to save money.
- – Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Safe driving can lower your insurance rates over time.
- – Take Advantage of Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, good grades for students, or completing defensive driving courses.
Final Thoughts for Safe Winter Driving
As Punxsutawney Phil makes his appearance each February, remember that winter driving requires extra caution and preparation. By following these seven tips, you can help ensure your safety and that of others on the road. Always stay informed, adjust your driving habits, and maintain your vehicle properly to tackle whatever winter weather brings. When spring does finally return, do some post-winter vehicle maintenance to make sure it’s ready for all of the roads ahead. Safe travels!
If you’re ready to update your policy, you can reach out to our team at Ashland Insurance online or give us a call!
541.482.0831 Ashland
541.857.0679 Medford