The State of Connecticut has a very diverse climate that allows residents to experience all four seasons. It is not uncommon for residents to see large ranges in temperatures daily. Due to the State’s diverse weather, Connecticut drivers need to be prepared to operate their vehicles in all types of weather. Motorists can avoid accidents in inclement weather if they follow bad weather driving tips.
Winter Driving Tips
Connecticut tends to have cold winters that produce ice, snow and sleet. The winter conditions can make the task of driving more difficult, increasing the risk of being involved in a Connecticut car accident. Drivers should follow the tips below to help them reach their destinations safely:
- Drivers should never warm up their vehicles in enclosed areas.
- Avoid using the parking brake in cold and wintry weather.
- Do not use cruise control when driving on slick surfaces.
- Make sure that your gas tank is half full during the winter to prevent the gas line from freezing up.
- Keep a car emergency kit in your vehicle at all times.
- Put your low-beam headlights on when driving on overcast days.
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Tips For Driving In Snow
- Drivers should accelerate and decelerate their vehicles slowly; this will help you avoid skidding on snowy roads.
- Allow yourself extra time to travel to your destination. Every maneuver (i.e. stopping, turning) takes longer on the slick pavement.
- Connecticut drivers should increase their following distance to eight to 10 seconds when driving in the snow.
- Use threshold braking when possible. Keep your heel on the car floor and use the ball of your foot to apply steady pressure to the pedal.
- Avoid coming to a complete stop. When approaching a traffic light slow down enough to keep rolling until the stoplight turns to green.
- Motorists should not quickly accelerate on hills. Try to use a little inertia when approaching a hill and let it carry you to the top.
- Avoid driving in the snow, if possible. While you may be a good driver in the snow, others are not.
Tips For Driving In The Rain
Connecticut receives precipitation throughout the entire year. Whether it is winter or summer, it’s imperative to drive cautiously in the rain. If you happen to be caught in the rain, using these tips will help you avoid a potentially dangerous situation:
- Try to drive in the middle lanes of the road; rain tends to collect on the side of the road.
- Keeps a safe distance away from the vehicle traveling in front of you. Allow yourself enough room to stop, if the car in front suddenly slams on their brakes.
- Avoid driving near buses and large commercial trucks. Oftentimes, these vehicles make big splashes that can temporarily block your sight of the street.
- Be cautious of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when your tires ride on top of a layer of water, causing you to decrease your steering control.
- Dry your brakes when they become saturated. After driving through a large puddle, your brakes may become wet. You can dry them out by lightly applying pressure.
- Pull over to a safe location if the rain becomes too heavy for you to see.
While you may take extra precautions while driving in bad weather, remember that other motorists may not do the same. Try to avoid drivers that are driving recklessly in the inclement weather.
