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When driving conditions are less than ideal, it pays to be cautious. Drive slowly, test your brakes often and never tailgate. Turn on your lights, and make sure that windshields (front and rear) are clear and that wipers and defrosters are in good working condition. Use low gears when traveling on slick surfaces (especially hills) to give added traction. Listen to weather forecasts, and if weather and visibility are hazardous, stay at home.
Whenever possible, avoid driving during a winter storm and instead utilize public transportation.

Preparing for Winter Driving

Before taking any vehicle on the road in the winter, have it tuned up. Test the brakes, battery and exhaust system. Check fluid levels, add antifreeze and switch to winter-weight oil. Put on snow tires and carry emergency equipment. Emergency equipment should include sand or kitty litter, salt, a shovel, chains, a snow scraper/brush, booster cables, blankets and a flashlight.
If you must drive, observe the following tips:

• Avoid traveling alone, but if you do so, let someone know your destination, route and when you expect to arrive.
• Dress warmly. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in layers.
• Listen to the radio or call the state highway patrol for the latest road conditions.
• Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible; these roadways will be cleared first.
• Drive slowly. Posted speed limits are for ideal weather conditions. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles may make it easier to drive on snow-covered roads, but they do not stop quicker than other vehicles.
• If you skid, steer in the direction you want the car to go and straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction.
• Know your vehicle's braking system. Vehicles with antilock brakes require a different braking technique than vehicles without antilock brakes in icy or snowy conditions.
• Try to keep your vehicle's gas tank as full as possible.
• If you become stuck on the road:

• Stay with your car. Do not try to walk to safety unless help is visible within 100 yards. You could become disoriented quickly in blowing snow.
• Display a trouble sign if you need help; tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna and raise the hood to alert rescuers.
• Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Leave the overhead light on when the car is running so you can be seen.
• Move your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to stay warm.
• Keep one window slightly open to let in fresh air. Use a window that is opposite the direction the wind is blowing.

Driving on winter roads in Rhode Island is a challenge. There are many hazards that cannot be avoided. Learning what to do in these situations will help to lessen your chances of having an accident.

For more information go to: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/winter-safety-driving-tips.htm