TOPEKA (KSNT) – Cold temperatures and snowfall are on the way, which could make driving dangerous this coming weekend.
A Topeka driving expert said the easiest way to stay safe is to stay home. But if that is not an option, driving as slowly as possible is crucial.
“Safe to be anywhere from five to 10 miles an hour under the posted speed limit,” said driving instructor, Blake Ireland. “If you’re on the highway, safe to do 20 to 30 under the speed limit.”
If you get into trouble while on the highway, experts say, stay in your vehicle. That is the safest place to be.
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The American Automobile Association said winter storms, bad weather and sloppy road conditions are a factor in half-a-million crashes each winter. AAA said 2,000 people die on the road each winter.
Drivers should apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Remember, it takes longer to slow down for stop lights. When braking, keep your heel on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply pressure on the brake pedal.
If you have to go out, here are some things you might take with you
- Extra food and water
- Warm clothing
- A flashlight
- A glass scraper
- Blankets
- Medicine/first aid kit
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AAA said you should also keep at least half-a-tank of gas in your car at all times, never warm up a vehicle in a garage and don’t use cruise control on ice and snow. If you get stuck, keep your dome light on so rescuers can find you. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not clogged with snow, ice, or mud.
A blocked exhaust pipe can cause carbon monoxide to get into the car. Use whatever you can find to stay warm, including floor mats, newspapers or maps. You should also try to conserve gas. Only run the engine long enough to remove the chill.
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