Officials are urging Washington residents to stay off the roads but if you do venture out driving, here’s some advice. “it’s not the survival of the fittest, but survival of the smartest,” said AAA MidAtlantic’s John Townsend.
» Clear off all snow from the car as it’s not only unsafe for other vehicles but also against the law in the District.
» Travel with at least half a tank of gas to warm up the car for 10 minutes each hour if the vehicle gets stuck, plus bring lots of layers of clothes, food, water, a charged cell phone, jumper cables, a shovel, scraper and a bag of kitty litter (to help with traction).
» Drive slowly, keeping both hands on the wheel.
» “If there are snow plows or salt trucks, give them ample time and room to work,” Townsend said. “Drive behind them, that’s probably the best bet.”
» Keep your eyes on the pavement ahead. Even if the road appears clear, transportation officials warn that slick spots of black ice may crop up or snow may have toppled into the lane from street-side banks reaching eight feet. Also, highway acceleration and deceleration lanes and ramps may not be clear so travel slowly near any merges.
» If your vehicle starts to slide, do not jam on the brakes. Instead take your foot off the accelerator, and steer in the direction you want to go.
— Kytja Weir
