From Tribune staff reports
MONTGOMERY, Ala.–With the ongoing freezes sweeping through Alabama, ALEA is urging residents to prioritize their safety on the roads by taking essential steps to winterize their vehicles and practice safe driving techniques.
Here are the tips that the agency shared to prepare for cold weather and be safe when roads become icy and hazardous:
Winterizing Your Vehicle
- Check Your Battery – Cold temperatures can affect battery performance. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s in good condition.
- Inspect Tires – Ensure your tires have proper tread depth and are inflated correctly for improved traction.
- Fluid Levels – Check and top off all fluids, including antifreeze, oil, and windshield washer fluid, to withstand freezing temperatures.
- Wipers and Lights – Replace worn wiper blades and test all headlights and taillights for optimal visibility during winter storms.
- Emergency Kit – Prepare an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle containing items such as blankets, non-perishable snacks, water, a flashlight, jumper cables, a first aid kit, and essential tools. This kit can be a lifesaver in case of a breakdown or being stranded until help arrives.
Winter Driving Tips
- Avoid Cruise Control – Steering sensitivity can change on icy roads, leading to loss of vehicle control. It’s important to stay attentive and in control, especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Slow Down – Reduced speeds help you maintain better control of your vehicle in slippery conditions.
- Increase Following Distance – Give yourself extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead, allowing more time to react if you need to stop.
- Be Cautious on Bridges and Overpasses – These areas freeze more quickly than regular roadways. Approach them with caution.
- Watch for Black Ice – This thin, nearly invisible layer of ice can form on roadways, especially in shaded areas. If you encounter black ice, remain calm, gently ease off the accelerator, and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Stay Informed – Monitor local weather conditions and alerts. Plan your route and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather. Monitor local news for information on weather conditions and travel advisories, and check road conditions at algotraffic.com.
“Without notice, weather conditions can change dramatically. Our Agency has prepared for the incoming winter weather, with all divisions and units developing and implementing winter-weather operation plans,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said.
“These efforts will ensure that both ALEA Troopers and Special Agents are fully prepared to aid and assist motorists traveling throughout the state. If you have not already taken precautions, we strongly encourage everyone to prepare for the incoming weather and we recommend winterizing your vehicle, practicing safe driving behaviors, as well as staying weather aware. In the event conditions worsen, we urge motorists to adjust travel plans and avoid driving in severe weather.”
