Safety Tips - Winter Driving

When the weather changes, so do driving conditions. The following information can help you drive safely when winter weather strikes.  The National Weather Service is also another source of important information.

• Check the road conditions (text or map search) in your area (or call 800-452-9292), and stay tuned to local news broadcasts for more information on roadway and weather conditions.
• Remove snow and ice from your vehicle before you drive, making sure the headlights and taillights are visible.
• Accelerate slowly.
• Increase your following distance.
• Brake gently in slow, steady strokes to see how much traction you have, and begin braking early when approaching intersections or stops.
• Approach bridges, shaded spots, overpasses and turns slowly.
• Never use cruise control in winter driving conditions.
• Use non-freezing windshield washer liquid.
• Use snow tires and/or chains (where allowed).
• If stranded, call the Texas Department of Public Safety's stranded motorist hotline toll-free at (800) 525-5555.

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Related Links

• Road Conditions (Text)
• Road Conditions (Map)
• Snowplow Safety
• Traffic Safety Tips