Weather-Related Driving Safety

• Reduced traction from rain, snow, ice, mud, or wet leaves
• Poor visibility from fog, heavy rain, snow, glare, or darkness
• Longer stopping distance on slick roads
• Hydroplaning during heavy rain or standing water
• Wind affecting high-profile vehicles, trailers, or loads
• Drivers continuing travel when conditions are unsafe

Weather can change driving conditions quickly. A route that is safe in dry daylight may become hazardous in rain, snow, fog, ice, wind, or darkness.

Drivers should check weather and road conditions before travel when conditions may affect the route.

Speed should be reduced for rain, snow, ice, fog, wet roads, gravel, and low visibility. Posted speed limits may still be too fast for conditions.

Following distance should be increased because stopping distance is longer on wet or slick roads.

Headlights, wipers, defrosters, mirrors, tires, brakes, and washer fluid should be checked before driving in poor weather.

Drivers should avoid sudden braking, sharp steering, and aggressive acceleration when traction is limited.

Wind can affect trailers, box trucks, bucket trucks, vans, and vehicles carrying loads. Extra caution is needed on bridges, open roads, and exposed areas.

Safe weather-related driving depends on planning, slowing down, increasing distance, keeping the vehicle ready, and delaying or stopping travel when conditions become unsafe.

• Check weather and road conditions before travel.
• Slow down for rain, snow, ice, fog, and wind.
• Increase following distance.
• Use headlights and maintain visibility.
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp steering.
• Use extra caution with trailers and high-profile vehicles.
• Delay travel when conditions are unsafe.

• What weather hazards are expected on the route?
• Is the vehicle ready for poor visibility or slick roads?
• Does speed need to be reduced?
• Is extra following distance being used?
• Should travel be delayed or rerouted?