Driving safely in snow: slow speed, keep distance

Two simple safety measures - driving slower and staying well behind the car you are following - can reduce the risk of accidents during heavy snowfall and severe winter weather, said Ellen Melchionni, president of the New York Insurance Association, an Albany-based trade association.

With heavy snow predicted and just 10 days into February, Melchionni's advice is particularly timely. She cites a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that identifies February as the worst winter month for traffic accidents.

In 2008, NHTSA reported 541,000 motor vehicle accidents for February - a rate of 249 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. That tops the annual rate of 199 accidents per 100 million miles traveled.

"Slow down," Melchionni said, "and increase the space between you and the car that's ahead of you."

Robert Sinclair Jr. of the AAA New York echoed Melchionni's advice. He said slowing down is the No. 1 safety tip for winter driving. "That and following distances should be increased," he said. "Vehicles can take nine times longer to stop on ice and snow, so increase the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you."

Sinclair also said that deep snow can plug an exhaust pipe, causing deadly carbon monoxide fumes to fill the interior of a vehicle. "Just get out and make sure the exhaust pipe is free and clear of snow," he said.

Here are some other common winter driving tips, as provided by the NYIA and AAA New York:

Give yourself more time. Trips often take longer in winter because of storm conditions and icy roads.

Clear ice and snow from front and rear windshields.

Drive slowly. Accelerating, stopping and turning all take longer on snow-covered roads.

Bridges and overpasses can be especially slippery.

Avoid sudden stops and quick turns.

Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage. Vehicle exhaust can release carbon monoxide into living areas.

Check tires for proper inflation for better traction.

Keep the gas tank at least half-full to avoid gas-line freeze-up.

Do not use the speed-control function on slick surfaces.

Use seat belts every time.

Just in case you get stuck, pack a cell phone, extra blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication.

If your vehicle becomes disabled, stay in it. It provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you.

Stay home. Don't go out unless you have to. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can.