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Winter Weather Do’s and Don’ts
In just a few hours a major winter storm is forecast to hit much of Virginia, snarling traffic, closing schools and businesses and causing power outages. In this space I want to appeal to drivers and their common sense and urge yoiu to stay off the roads until travel is safe. I realize that sometimes it’s hard not to drive in snow, you have errands to run, you need to help out neighbors, etc. Legitimate issues are fine. I’m talking about joy riding down Midlothian Turnpike to check out all the snow. Don’t. Road crews work faster when there is less traffic. Before roads are clear, conditions can be dangerous. If you crash or get stuck you put emergency crews at unnecessary risk. Once roads are clear, life can generally resume as normal. Remember to slow down, leave plenty of space between your car and the car ahead of you. Don’t use your phone to take pictures of the snow while you’re driving. 80% of crashes are caused by some form of distraction and in many cases that’s a cell phone. Don’t let it be you. If you’re a parent with a teen at or near driving age, encourage them to drive with you on the snow in a nearby parking lot or a less traveled road. This helps less experienced drivers get some experience driving on slick roads. Of course, only if you can find a safe place to do this. Please leave your comments here, too. And if you have tips, i’m happy to share them. Thank you.