Winter Weather Driving - North Carolina NPR News

Winter Weather Driving

January 17, 2013 | Audrey Fannin

Weather forecasters say snow is expected across much of North Carolina, now saying there could be as much as 9 inches in the northwestern mountains. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm advisories and warnings for much of North Carolina into tomorrow morning. Forecasters say precipitation will start as rain before low pressure and cold air combine to produce snow.

Up to 9 inches of snow is expected around Boone, with up to 6 inches in the western mountains and up to 5 inches as far east as the Triad. An inch or more of snow is expected across much of the state. Snow is even expected as far east as Elizabeth City.

Angela Vogel Daley, spokesperson for AAA Carolinas, shared the following tips for motorists who have to venture out onto snowy and icy roads:

Winter Driving Tips:

Increase your following distance from 3-4 seconds to 8-10 seconds. On dry pavement at 20 mph it takes about 20 feet to stop. On ice-covered roads at 25 degrees, it takes 145 feet to stop - seven times further. Keep your speed appropriate to the needed stopping distance. Brake gradually with steady pressure on the brake. If you begin to skid, steer in the direction you want to go. If you do not have anti-lock brakes, gently depress the brake pedal. Do not slam on your brakes; it can cause you to lose control. If the brakes lock, release the brake and gently brake again while keeping your heel on the floor. This is known as "threshold braking." Depress brake pedal again and repeat process until you regain control. If you have anti-lock brakes, keep the brake firmly engaged, since the brakes will not lock up. Remember that the kickback from the pedal is the braking mechanism releasing and rebraking in milliseconds. Be especially wary on hills. Observe how other vehicles are reacting. Build momentum at the bottom of the hill and reduce speed when cresting the hill. On snowy four-lane highways, stay in the most recently cleared lane. Avoid changing lanes because of potential control loss when driving over built-up snow between lanes. Avoid using cruise control in slick or snowy conditions. Be careful crossing bridges and overpasses as these freeze before the regular roadway. Traction is greatest right before the wheels start to spin. Press gently on the accelerator and use a higher (second or third) gear when first getting started. Wear sunglasses during the day as glare may increase when reflected off of ice and snow. At stoplights or intersections watch out for polished or packed snow, which can make halting more treacherous. Heavy-footed drivers also spin their tires when starting, which worsens the problem. If possible, stop or start safely on a slightly different line. Fresh snow or less polished areas almost always offer better traction. Slow down sooner and gradually when approaching an intersection to allow yourself more time to react. Keep your lights on. Using your headlights improves visibility, both yours and other drivers.