The Icy Roads Cometh Will You Be Ready
Tips From the Bridgestone Winter Driving School Experts
The Bridgestone Winter Driving School uses Blizzak ice and snow tires to demonstrate winter driving techniques.
(NUI) - The thought of driving in winter weather can give anyone chills. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 300,000 vehicle accidents due to ice and snow conditions in 1996.
Mark Cox, executive director of the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat Springs, Colo., has some tips on how to avoid becoming an accident statistic this winter.
"During the winter months, keep abreast of weather reports in your area," Cox says. "If snow or ice is predicted, make plans to leave early or arrive later. An alarm clock set to an earlier time can be a good friend in helping you avoid difficulties."
Cox also recommends driving only in daylight if possible. Not only is visibility better but, if your vehicle is stalled, you are more likely to receive prompt assistance during the daytime.
Preparing your vehicle can be the key to safer winter driving. Check windshield wiper blades to make sure they work properly. Have a mechanic test the antifreeze/coolant to make sure it is providing the correct level of protection required in your driving area.
Tires are another important feature when it comes to winter driving. According to Cox, a tire designed specifically for winter, like the Bridgestone Blizzak, can give drivers an extra margin of safety to help avoid accidents.
"An important thing to remember when considering tires is that they are your ultimate connection to the road," Cox says. "A tire like the Bridgestone Blizzak provides better traction on snow and ice, and adds a level of predictability and safety in winter weather that is unmatched by an all-season tire."
The Bridgestone Blizzak ice-and-snow tire features a patented Multicell tread compound that contains millions of microscopic pores. The pores create biting edges that grip the road surface. The result is greater driving and braking force on ice- and snow-covered surfaces.
To learn more about winter tires, call Bridgestone at 1-800-807-9555. The Bridgestone Winter Driving School offers one- and two-day classes on ice and snow driving; for more information about the school, call 1-800-WHY-SKID (1-800-949-7543).
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