7 Ways to Stay Out of the Ditch During a Minnesota Winter Storm

It's back. Winter. And some of us have more of a challenge driving in it than others. The above picture was during an extreme event in 2019 between Owatonna and Faribault. But slick roads led to some crashes this week too.

AAA Minnesota sent out some defensive driving technique tips for all of us to put into use to stay safe on wintery roads, adding, "If it is not safe and you don't have to travel, don't drive."

But for all those times when we must venture out...

REMOVE ALL THE SNOW FROM YOUR CAR

Easier said then done, especially when it is windy, cold, or you are late to getting the kids to school or yourself to work. And get that snow brush back into your car! I forgot until just this week.

FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE GETS YOU GOING

The extra traction doesn't help you stop any faster, however, AAA points out.

DON'T CUT IN FRONT OF TRUCKS

AAA says, "When changing lanes, avoid cutting in front of trucks, which need more time and distance than passenger vehicles to stop."

SLOW DOWN

Those posted speed limits, which many people seem to ignore anyway, "are for ideal conditions."

LOOK FARTHER AHEAD IN TRAFFIC

Be watchful way ahead of you as to what is going on. Noticing brake lights well down the road can tip you off to a tricky situation ahead.

NO CRUISING

Cruise control shouldn't be used when snow or ice is present.

HOW TO REACT TO A SKID

AAA Minnesota instructs, "In the event of a skid, ease off the accelerator and don't lock the brakes. Carefully steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go and straighten the wheel as soon as the car begins to go in the desired direction."

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