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November law of the month

Winter driving is always a challenge 

Driving any time of year is challenging. But during winter - with its onslaught of ice, snow, and limited visibility - the degree of driving difficulty definitely increases. To arrive at your destination safely, you'll need to take precautions and be particularly patient.

This time of year, you'll need to remove all frost, ice and snow on your vehicle's windows. "Clearing a small patch to see through a windshield or rear window is not sufficient. You must be able to see in all directions at all times to avoid crashes. Clearing snow and ice from the lights, hood and roof also helps improve visibility and safety," says State Patrol Superintendent David Collins.

According to state law, a vehicle's windshield, side wings, and side and rear windows must be kept clear at all times. Violating this law costs $175.30 with two demerit points assessed on the driver's record.

Winter also is a prime time for crashes and cars in ditches because of driving too fast for conditions." The posted speed limits are for dry pavement, and those speeds may be hazardous when there's ice or snow on the road. The slogan 'Snow Means Slow' also applies to four-wheel drive and other heavy duty vehicles, which need ample distance for stopping on slippery roads, just like other vehicles," says Superintendent Collins. "A citation for driving too fast for conditions costs $213.10 with four demerit points."

To minimize the dangers of winter driving, the State Patrol offers the following safety tips:

• Always wear your seat belt even if traveling a short distance (you and your passengers absolutely need this protection even in low speed "fender-bender" collisions).

• Watch for slippery bridge decks (they ice up quicker than adjacent pavement).

• Look farther ahead than you usually do (actions by vehicles ahead of you will alert you sooner to upcoming slippery spots and other hazards).

• Don't use your cruise control in wintry conditions (even on roads that appear clear, there may be slippery spots, which can cause a loss of traction and a spinout if the vehicle is in the cruise-control mode).

• Don't get overconfident in the traction of your four-wheel drive vehicle (four-wheel drive vehicles usually won't stop any quicker or maintain traction in curves any better than two-wheel drive vehicles).

• Brake early and correctly (it takes much longer to stop in adverse conditions).

• Don't pump anti-lock brakes (with anti-lock brakes, the correct braking method is to "stomp and steer").

• Remember that trucks are heavier than cars (trucks take longer to slow down or stop, so avoid cutting in front of them).

• Leave plenty of room for snow plows (stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the right).

Previous "Laws of the Month"

Questions about the content of this page:
Steve L. Olson, steven.olson@dot.wi.gov
Last modified: November 2, 2009