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Stay Safe on the Roads This Winter with Mercury Insurance

As winter descends, bringing cold temperatures, snow, and ice, driving can become fraught with challenges. This time of year, a substantial number of accidents occur due to weather-related conditions. Mercury Insurance, a leader in providing comprehensive insurance services, has shared essential tips to help drivers navigate winter's hazards effectively.

According to Justin Yoshizawa, the Director of Product Management at Mercury Insurance, approximately 25% of all weather-related collisions occur on snowy, slushy, or icy surfaces. These incidents lead to injuries for hundreds of thousands of individuals annually, highlighting the importance of taking proactive steps to ensure safety on the roads.

Key Tips for Winter Driving

Mercury Insurance advocates several practical strategies that can enhance your safety during winter driving:

1. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance

In winter conditions, ignore the common rule to maintain your speed. Instead, significantly reduce your speed and extend your following distance to a staggering eight to ten seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. This precaution grants you ample time to react when sudden stops are necessary.

2. Avoid Sudden Movements

Smooth driving is crucial during the winter months. Abrupt acceleration, deceleration, or steering can set you up for losing traction and skidding. Instead, make gentle adjustments, which can help maintain control over your vehicle.

3. Proper Braking Techniques

Many cars now come equipped with anti-lock braking systems (ABS). In such cases, apply firm and continuous pressure to the brake pedal during slippery conditions. For vehicles without ABS, gently pump the brakes to avoid locking the wheels, allowing for a more stable stop.

4. Exercise Caution on Bridges and Overpasses

Bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas are particularly susceptible to ice formation, often becoming icier than other road sections. Approach these areas with extra caution and reduced speed to navigate safely.

5. Avoid Using Cruise Control

Cruise control can lead to a loss of vehicle control on snowy or icy roads. This feature should be turned off to maintain full control over your vehicle, especially in adverse conditions.

6. Maintain a Safe Distance from Snow Plows

When you encounter snow removal equipment, maintain at least four car lengths of distance. The limited visibility around these vehicles makes passing them while they’re active particularly dangerous.

Yoshizawa emphasizes that by taking the time to prepare and remain vigilant, drivers can navigate winter roads more effectively.