Icy roads were reported Friday morning in the northwest Houston region, but the hazardous driving conditions are only expected to worsen.
A major winter storm could bring ice, sleet and freezing rain, or any combination of all three, from late Sunday through Monday, according to meteorologists from Space City Weather. The Texas Department of Transportation, AAA, weather experts and other officials offer tips for staying safe on the roads. Here's a list of safe winter driving practices compiled by the Chronicle from those sources.
1. Stay off the roads: It is widely recommended that people stay home during winter storms because sleet, ice or cold rain can create slick roads and poor visibility. People should only travel if necessary.
2. Slow down: Ease up on the gas pedal and drive more slowly. Don't tail other vehicles too closely, but maintain at least three times the normal following distance, roughly five or six seconds. Accelerate and decelerate slowly to avoid skidding -- it takes longer to slow down on ice. If possible, avoid coming to a full stop.
3. Watch out for bridges: Be extra careful on bridges, overpasses and ramps, which typically freeze before regular roadways.
4. Braking: Apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal while keeping your heel down. Do not pump the brake if you have an anti-lock braking system, which will pulse or vibrate on its own.
5. Steering: If your car begins sliding, ease your foot off the gas and steer into the direction of the skid. Remain calm. Straighten your vehicle after you regain traction.
6. Check road conditions: Before you leave for your destination, check Houston TranStar or local media outlets for live updates on road conditions or crashes.
7. Stock up: Make sure your car is supplied with blankets, water and food in case you become stranded on a roadway. If you have them, carry gloves, an ice scraper, window-washing solvent, a small snow shovel, flashlight and other emergency supplies in your car. Wear comfortable, warm clothing for your drive.
8. Visibility: Clear snow and ice from your car, including the windshield, windows, hood and lights, before driving. Keep your headlights on.
"how" - Google News
February 12, 2021 at 10:04PM
https://ift.tt/3b3qQSv
How to drive safely on icy roads as Houston winter storm looms - Houston Chronicle
"how" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2MfXd3I
https://ift.tt/3d8uZUG
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "How to drive safely on icy roads as Houston winter storm looms - Houston Chronicle"
Post a Comment