LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — With frigid temperatures and icy road conditions on the horizon, AAA is advising Kentuckians to avoid traveling if possible.
“The safest thing you can do is stay home, lock up the car and wait for this to subside,” said AAA Fleet Manager Jed Bowles.
If you cannot avoid going out, AAA is offering the following driving tips:
- Slow down.
- Do not tailgate.
- Watch the traffic ahead.
- Never use cruise control on slippery roads
- Avoid unnecessarily changing lanes.
- Use extreme caution on bridges and overpasses.
- Use your emergency flashers
- Carry a winter weather kit in your car, which should include items like blankets, warm winter clothing and jumper cables.
One of the most common problems motorists face when driving on icy roads is not decreasing their velocity enough, according to Bowles.
“It’s literally a recipe for disaster when people try to rush or try to push it in this type of weather. Your chances of having an accident are already high. It’s going to increase exponentially if you’re not careful,” Bowles said.
AAA says if your car does skid on ice, try to control it as much as you can. Ease your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want the front of your car to go.
Bowles also emphasized the importance of driving free of distractions.
“You want to have your cell phone in case of an emergency, but you don’t want to touch it,” he said. “You want to totally focus on the road.”
AAA is also urging Kentuckians to prepare their cars for the incoming cold.
In addition to keeping a winter weather kit in the car in case you are in a situation where you’re waiting for help to arrive, you should pay special attention to the following parts of your car:
- Check your car battery.
- Check your tire pressure.
- Check for a spare tire.
- Keep at least half a tank of gas in your car.
