PRESS RELEASE- Winter Driving Safety
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: December 3, 2023
Season’s Greetings from the Paradise Police Department! It is the time of year to factor weather into your driving plans. Follow these tips to keep yourself, your passengers, and everyone else safe this winter.
BE PREPARED:
• Replace your windshield wipers. Hot summer sun degrades rubber, making your windshield wipers less efficient at sweeping water from your windshield.
• Check your vehicle lights. A winter storm is a bad time to realize your headlight is out!
• Tire Inflation. As the outside temperature drops, so does tire inflation pressure. Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which is on a label located on the driver's side door frame. Don’t forget to check the spare tire!
• Check your tire tread to ensure you have sufficient traction in rain and snow. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicated that in 2021, poor tire condition was a factor in 622 fatal traffic collisions. NHTSA and leading tire manufacturers recommend replacing your tires when there is 1/16th inch or less of tire tread remaining.
• Inventory. Check to make sure you have the following items in your car: Ice scraper, flashlight with fresh batteries, warm gloves, and bottled water. If you are headed for an area with snow, bring tire chains, a shovel, a blanket, shelf stable snacks, and dry socks.
WHEN DRIVING:
• Give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Driving during inclement weather takes longer than in normal weather. Running late can lead to distraction, speeding, and risky driving behavior.
• Slow Down. Most winter accidents are speed related. Wet brakes and wet roads can more than double the amount of time and distance it takes to stop. Snow or Ice can increase the time and distance by 10 times! Driving slower gives you more time to react to road hazards.
• Be aware, rain, snow, and fog cause reduced visibility, making it harder to see stopping cars, fallen tree branches, and storm-related road hazards. Allow yourself more space from the car ahead of you.
• Watch for ice. Cal-Trans advises it does not have to be below 32 degrees for ice to form.
• Headlights on. State law requires drivers to activate their headlights any time their windshield wipers are on. The Paradise Ridge is prone to dense fog reducing visibility. Having your headlights on makes it easier for you to see road hazards and easier for other drivers to see you.
• Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm, heavy snow, or flooding. A full tank of gas could prevent you from becoming stranded.
• Child Car Seats. Check to make sure your child’s car seat or booster seat is properly installed and the right type for their age and size. Puffy winter coats can give the illusion of a proper harness fit. Instead of a thick coat, dress your child in thinner layers and provide a blanket over the harness.
For more information, visit dot.ca.gov/travel/winter-driving-tips or www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips
LOCATION: Paradise, CA
SUSPECT(S): N/A
INVESTIGATING OFFICER: Select
APPROVING SUPERVISOR: Select
