Winter Weather Road Safety Tips Every West Texan Needs To Know

Here in West Texas, we don't get much winter weather but when we do it causes chaos! People tend to drive like it's still 90 degrees outside and for some reason need to stock up on toilet paper. So why not share some tips the Texas Department of Public Safety has for driving during winter weather?

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ROAD SAFETY TIPS

Icey roads are not fun and safety should be the main priority. Keeping an eye on the weather by checking weather conditions before deciding to hit the road should be your first concern. When snow, freezing rain, or sleet is in the forecast, staying home will be the safest thing to do. If you have to get on the road, check road conditions by going to Drive Texas or calling 800-452-9292, and make sure to give yourself some extra time to get to your next spot.

Texas DPS also recommends not using cruise control during winter weather. If the roads are slippery and you start to slide, cruise control will keep your car at a set speed, which could lead to a skid or a spin. Plus having your vehicle on cruise control will cause a late reaction if your car starts to slide.

Before the heavy winter weather hits make sure to fill up your tank. You don't want to be stuck on the side of the road in below-freezing temps because your car ran out of gas. Let's be safe and not sorry.

One of the most important things about road safety is to research and monitor your local weather. Keep the National Weather Service handy and check it multiple times because weather loves to change its mind here in the Permian Basin.