- Lake County News reports
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CHP offers tips for driving during bad weather conditions
LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – With winter soon to arrive, the California Highway Patrol reminds motorists of the dangers of driving during inclement weather and has a few tips of how to stay safe while traveling.
Many crashes result from driving too fast, so the first and foremost tip is to slow down, the agency said.
It’s a simple matter of physics that your vehicle can’t stop as fast or turn as accurately on wet or icy pavement.
Be prepared for potential inclement weather by leaving early, allowing plenty of time to get where you’re going.
Nobody likes a tailgater. Always leave ample distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.
By utilizing the three second rule you can avoid hard braking by giving yourself more time to slow.
The three second rule is as follows: While traveling behind another vehicle, at the same rate of speed, when the vehicle passes a stationary object – i.e., a light pole, parked vehicle or pavement markings – count one one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand.
If you pass the same object prior to counting to three one thousand, you are following too close and should increase your following distance.
Vehicle maintenance also is important. Do your tires have tread? Does your defroster work? Is there antifreeze in your radiator? Are your windshield wipers in good working order? Is the windshield washer fluid full and does it spray appropriately onto your windshield? Do your headlights work?
And don’t forget the law requires you to have your headlights on anytime the windshield wipers are operating continuously.
Remember – slow down, stay alert and stay in control.
Further winter driving tips are available on at www.chp.ca.gov .
You also can check road conditions before heading out by calling 800-427-7623.