Winter Weather Driving Tips

The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) says it has prepared its personnel and equipment in efforts to support the need of law enforcement and emergency responders for upcoming harsh road condition events.

Tips to know:

• Reduce your speed: The best accident prevention on snow and ice is to slow down and leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you for emergencies.
• Practice good winter driving techniques: Keep your gas tank full, turn on your head lights, keep your windshield washer fluid full with antifreeze, keep winter driving chains in your vehicle, have a winter survival kit which includes flashlight, hand warming packets, first aid supplies, high energy snacks, bottled water, medications; and read your owner’s manual for special instructions on driving 4-wheel drive vehicles and vehicles with ABS on snow and ice.
• Avoid driving in a snow cloud: Large vehicles, such as semitrailer trucks and snow plows, may produce dense clouds of blowing snow that make it difficult for drivers to see. When drivers encounter snow clouds, they should stay back to avoid them.
• Plan ahead and be patient: Delays are common during bad weather. Leave a little earlier and be patient with delays.
• Check before you pass: Know where a snowplow and blade are before trying to pass. On multilane highways, the plow can be in your blind spot. Before attempting to pass, make sure it is safe.
• Pay attention to weather forecasts, trust them: Winter storms in New Mexico can become severe quickly, so stay tuned to weather forecasts when planning your trip.
• Don’t use cruise control when the roads are in slippery conditions. Using your cruise control can reduce your control of the vehicle if your tires begin to skid or slip.
• Know your current road conditions: Visit the NMDOT website for current road advisory information at nmroads.com, or dial 511 in the state or 800-432-4269.
• Wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers also buckle up.