When thinking about winter driving, you probably envision people in parkas wading through several feet of snow. Perhaps their car stalled or slid into a ditch, and they are both cold and in need of help.
It does not take below-freezing temperatures and mountains of snow to make winter driving dangerous. When the weather starts to get cooler and roads are wet, these conditions could create trouble on any roadway.
Here’s what you should know about getting ready for winter driving in Florida.
Watch out for slippery areas
While Florida may not get the snow that many other states receive, bridges and overpasses can still become quite slippery. When you live in area that does not experience harsh winter conditions, dangerous road conditions can be challenging to recognize. In Florida, it is essential to watch for conditions, such as:
- Wet weather
- Cold conditions (even if temperatures are not below freezing)
- Wind
Most roads are constructed with several feet of earth beneath them which provides insulation from the cold. Bridges and overpasses are exposed to cooler weather and wind on both the top and bottom. In certain conditions, a wet overpass on a cool night can become quite slippery.
Check your tires
One of the most important safety precautions you can take for all road conditions is to make sure you have tires with the proper amount of tread. In Florida, it is best to ensure your tires have sufficient tread which can mean the difference between a dangerous skid and staying on the road.
When you take precautions to make sure your vehicle is winter-ready, you will have a safer drive as the weather turns cooler.