Idaho

Transportation Department

2/7/2014

Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov

REMINDER: disengage cruise control for safer winter driving
BOISE - For safer driving, motorists should not use cruise control in slick winter-weather driving conditions. Safety is the top priority for the Idaho Transportation Department, who reminds drivers that although using cruise control is an efficient, gas-saving practice under normal conditions, it may not be safe as traction situations change.

“When the car bogs down in slush or snow, the engine of a vehicle using cruise control may engage the accelerator to try to regain the set speed, causing the vehicle to spin out,” explained Dan Bryant, ITD’s southwest Idaho maintenance coordinator. Bryant added that not using cruise control may help reduce the number of crashes, particularly slide-offs and those where a motorist loses control of the vehicle.

Other tips for safer winter driving are:

- Before heading out on the state's highways, dial 5-1-1 or visit 511.idaho.gov on the Web for updates on winter road and weather conditions, emergency closures and access to highway-condition reports. Images from cameras throughout the state are available on the website and on the mobile web application.

- Decrease speed and leave plenty of room to stop. Drivers should allow at least three times more space than usual between them and the car in front of you.

- Brake gently to avoid skidding. If wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.

- Winter conditions increase the importance of a well-maintained vehicle. Keep car windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice. Make sure tires and brakes are ready for the extra demands of winter. Visit a mechanic and ensure car battery and fluid levels are sufficient, heating units are working properly and that tires have sufficient traction for snowy conditions.

- If you need to install tire chains, look for a safe place away from traffic. Know how to install them properly before embarking on winter travel and practice installing them if you cannot remember the process. Tire chains should be applied to the drive wheels.

- Drive at a pace that you believe is safest for your vehicle and your driving abilities. Do not let other drivers dictate your speed. If traffic builds behind you, look for a safe place to pull to the right and allow others to pass.

- Drive with low-beam headlights in heavy snowfall or fog. Keep your headlights, stoplights and turn-signal lenses clean. Dirty headlights can cut visibility by 50 percent or more.

- If you start to skid, ease your foot off the accelerator. If you have a manual transmission, push in the clutch. Keep your foot off the brake and steer in the direction the rear of the vehicle is skidding.

- Carry essential supplies in your vehicle, such as: flashlights with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a blanket or sleeping bag, a basic tool kit, waterproof matches or butane lighter, bottled water, pocketknife or multi-purpose tool.

The most important safety measures drivers can take are:
•  Ensuring that everyone in the vehicle wears a seatbelt
•  Never driving after drinking alcohol, and
•  Always checking highway conditions in advance at 511.idaho.gov or by calling 5-1-1

Idaho is rugged country with a diverse geography and natural beauty. The qualities that invite exploration, recreation and commerce also can make winter driving a challenge. Safely navigating Idaho’s winter weather and highways requires preparation and patience.

ITD’s highest goal is for travelers to arrive safely at their destination.

To see all of ITD’s safe winter driving recommendations, visit itd.idaho.gov and select the graphic “Winter Driving Conditions” on the right side of the page.