Winter driving can be hazardous. Additional preparations can help make a trip safer or help motorists deal with an emergency. Below we provide some safety information to help prevent motor vehicle injuries due to winter storms.

The three Ps of safe winter driving: Prepare for the trip, protect yourself and prevent crashes.

Prepare

• Maintain your car: Check battery, tire tread and windshield wipers; ensure your windows are clear and that all snow is cleared from your car, including the roof; put winter-specific fluid in the washer reservoir; and check your antifreeze.

• Practice cold weather driving: Rehearse maneuvers slowly on ice or snow in an empty lot during the day.

• Steer into a skid.

• Know what your brakes will do: Press down with consistent pressure. You may have heard to pump your brakes—that information is largely outdated unless your car is an extremely old model.

• Understand that stopping distances are longer on snow and ice.

• Don’t idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space. Ensure your exhaust pipe isn't blocked by snow.

Protect yourself

• Buckle up.

Prevent crashes

• Slow down and increase distances between cars.

• Avoid fatigue—Get plenty of rest before a trip, stop at least every three hours and rotate drivers if possible.