Safety driving in winter

 

In the middle of December, it is getting colder and colder. Since last week’s collision in River Canard, the foggy weather has people paying more attention to driving safety during the winter month.

Local police are taking the time to remind drivers that with the cold weather approaching there are ways to keep safe while driving in the cold. Constable Andrew Drouilliard of the Windsor police said distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents and it is important for people to keep it in mind.

 

“Distracted driving is comparable to impaired driving in terms of its dangerous use,” Drouilliard said.  “We sometimes ask people to put (their cell phones) in their glove box so they don’t feel the urge to check that notification.  It distracts them from what they’re doing and what they should be doing is focusing on the road.”

In order to emphasize safe driving, local police rely on social media a lot.

“We rely on social media very frequently to let drivers know what is happening in the city, whether that be a car accident in a specific location  in the city so they can avoid that area or make alternative  arrangements so that they can get their destination quickly” Drouilliard said.

He also gave some tips about how people can drive safe in winter.

“Make sure their vehicles are prepared, like winter tires. Also, clear ice from their windshields  to make sure they have a clear view when driving. It’s also important for people to allow more time in getting to their destination, drive slowly, and keep some distance between the cars in front of you, so if you have to make a quick stop, you would be able to do so,” he said.

A local mechanic, Nick Papatodas said if people want a guaranteed safe driving experience in winter, they also need to get their cars prepared.

“Anti-lock breaks are a big part of winter safety,” he said. “Always keep washer fluid in your car so you can keep your car window clean, so you can see things at night. Keep your wiper blades in a good condition and more important … is anti freeze. If you don’t have strong anti free, your car engine will freeze and break.”