The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for northern Indiana until Tuesday evening, Jan. 12. Snowfall and blowing snow are expected, along with near-zero wind chills. Drivers should stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel and remember safe winter driving tips.
Elkhart, LaGrange, St Joseph, Berrien and Cass counties have been issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook until Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Residents should expect up to four inches of snowfall, with additional lake effect snow on Tuesday. Blowing and drifting snow from high winds will affect visibility.
There will also be a severe wind chill, dropping below zero on Tuesday night. To keep safe, drivers should avoid unnecessary travel and remember winter driving practices.
Safe Winter Driving Tips
After a mild December, it appears that winter is back in full force in Northern Indiana. Snow, ice, poor visibility and low temperatures are some of the hazards drivers will have to deal with. Drivers should be extra cautious and prepare for winter driving conditions.
- Drive slower – Accelerating, stopping and turning all take longer when driving in snow and ice. Tire traction will not be as effective as when driving on dry roads. Drive at least ten miles under the speed limit or even slower if conditions are severe.
- Get your car prepared – Make sure tires are properly inflated, your brakes are functional and your brake pads are in good repair. Check all fluids, and bring an extra bottle of wiper fluid. You should keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
- Get out of a skid – If your car starts skidding or spinning on the road, take your foot off the accelerator and turn the wheel in the opposite direction. Slowly apply the brakes intermittently.
- Keep an emergency kit – Pack an extra coat, gloves, boots and a snow shovel in your trunk. If you get stuck in a snow pile, you may have to wait in your vehicle for some time before help arrives.
- Avoid travel – If conditions are severe, stay home. Check the weather reports and closings to avoid unnecessary travel. Do not put yourself or your family at risk unnecessarily.
Even if you know how to drive in the snow, other people may not. A good driver can still fall victim to a bad driver. Have you suffered a personal injury in a car accident that was caused by another driver? The South Bend car accident lawyers at Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak help auto injury victims recover compensation. Call today for a free consultation.
Call (844) 678-1800 today.
