Vehicle maintenance, driving tips for winter weather conditions

JACKSON, Tenn. — As the winter weather continues to move across West Tennessee, we have some expert advice for all who will have to be on the road.

Winter conditions can be taxing on your vehicle. Remember to check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, fluids, wiper blades, lights, belts and hoses to make sure they’re in good condition. A breakdown is bad on a good day, and can be dangerous on a bad-weather day.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol recommends citizens to stock and prepare your vehicle for the unknown. Some things to include in your winter travel kit are blankets, water and a car battery.

Over the next few days, the Tennessee Department of Transportation will begin pretreating the roadways with a salt brine. This tacky mixture helps melt the snow as it hits the ground.

We spoke to Nichole Lawrence with TDOT about the importance of safe driving around snow plows.

“You know when our crews are out pretreating or plowing, either one, you know you need to give our workers space. So don’t crowd the plow, give yourself plenty of room between the people in front of you and our workers, so that they can clear the path for you to have a safe commute,” said Lawrence.

Driving in winter weather can be difficult, be sure to take extra precaution while traveling over bridges or overpasses. If you are stopped or stalled in wintry weather, stay focused on yourself, your passengers, your car and your surroundings.

Be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning, and make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of any snow.

“The biggest tip that we have is to just take your time. Check the SmartWay map on TDOT’s webpage, call 511 for road conditions, and if you can adjust your time going and coming to help make a safer commute for yourself and for us to be out working,” said Lawrence.

As TDOT’s crews are out treating the roads, give yourself a little more time to travel back and forth. Refrain from using cruise control in wintery conditions. And, brake early, brake slowly, brake correctly and never slam on the brakes.

“Just be careful out there, slow down and if you don’t have to be out in these icy conditions or snowy conditions, it’s always a good bet to stay in,” said Lawrence.

Stay with the our Storm Team Meteorologists for more winter-related updates this week.

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