Winter Driving Tips from the Bennington Police Department

Safe Winter Driving Tips

Drive according to road conditions

* Slow Down: Driving too fast on wintry roads is the leading cause of crashes.
* Travel at a safe distance of at least 3 car lengths, leaving plenty of room to stop.
* Do not crowd slow moving maintenance and emergency vehicles.
* Do not use cruise control while driving in a storm.
* Do not overestimate the capabilities of your four-wheel drive vehicle.
* Clear all snow and ice from the vehicle prior to travel.
* Be aware of black ice on what appears to be bare pavement.

SLOW DOWN AND BUCKLE UP!

Winter Travel
The State of Vermont's "Safe Roads at Safe Speeds" policy divides Vermont's state highway into three levels of service.

Suggested maximum driving speed during a winter storm:
Interstate system: 45 MPH
US/State Highways: 40 MPH
Rural or lightly traveled state highways: 35 MPH

These speed limits are "suggested" only. Always exercise caution and drive according to road and weather conditions.

The 511 Travel Information System

Check 511 before you take to the road for up-to-the-minute travel information. Find out about road conditions, wether, construction, crashes or any major delays before trip. Just dial 511 and follow the simple, voice activated prompts, or you can log on to www.511vt.com

511 is Easy to Use
Dial 511 or go to www.511vt.com

Available 24 hours a day / seven days a week.

Voice recognition

Winter roads conditions

Road construction, maintenance and incident information

Covers all interstate and most major routes

Normal airtime and roaming charges apply to wireless callers

Be Prepared - Pack A Winter Car Kit

Booster Cables

Two or more blankets

Candles & Matches

Snow Shovel and scraper

Flashlight and extra batteries

Extra clothing: cap, mittens, parka, and overshoes or boots in case you have to walk for help.

High calorie, non-perishable food like candy and canned nuts

Sand or strips of carpet for traction

Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze

Flares or reflectors

Properly Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving

Winter tires

Wipers and washer fluid

Heaters and defrosters

Properly adjusted brakes

Ensure battery and charging system operate properly

Carry tire chains for large trucks

Recommendations

Keep your gas tank 2/3 full to prevent the fuel line from freezing

Whenever possible, plan your trip during daylight hours

Check weather and road conditions before you leave

Remove ice and snow from windows, license plates and lights, and be sure to clear snow from
the vehicle's hood, roof and trunk area.

These tips are provided by: The Vermont Department of Public Safety. www.dps.state.vt.us