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As Seasons Change, So Should Driving Habits

10 November 1999

As Seasons Change, So Should Driving Habits

    AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 10 -- As the challenging winter
months approach, motorists must drive with caution.  Lyn St. James, a
concerned mother and professional Indy driver, has partnered with Drive Safer
America! to ensure motorists understand the proper techniques for driving
safely year round.
    "Inclement weather conditions make it necessary for motorists to drive
more slowly, regardless of posted speed limits," says Ms. St. James.  "During
winter weather, motorists often fail to remember to change driving attitudes
and actions."
    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),
nearly one million vehicle accidents a year occur in wet weather.  The number
of crashes due to inclement weather conditions during daylight hours rose by
more than 25 percent between 1992 and 1998 and more than 41,000 people died on
our roads in 1998.
    Ms. St. James offers the following tips to help ensure safety for drivers
and passengers during wet weather conditions:

    *  Turn headlights on anytime your windshield wipers are on.  Remember to
       use low beam headlights during poor weather.
    *  Use the defroster or air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear.
    *  Keep both hands on the wheel and do not make abrupt steering changes.
    *  Ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts.  Children 12-years-old
       and younger should sit in the rear seat.
    *  If you have four-wheel anti-lock brakes, remember to stomp on the
       brake, stay on the pedal and steer your vehicle where you want it to
       go.  Ease off the accelerator in a skid situation and turn the steering
       wheel in the direction of the skid.
    *  Use caution when braking suddenly, this may cause skidding or locked
       wheels in cars without four-wheel anti-lock brake systems.
    *  Be Prepared.  Have tire treads, brakes, lights and wipers inspected.
    *  Check weather conditions before your trip and leave earlier than usual
       to allow extra time to reach your destination.

    Launched in February 1997, Drive Safer America! is a consumer safety and
awareness program of Continental Teves, a world leader in the design,
development and supply of critical brake and chassis stability systems that
contribute to driving safety and comfort.
    Drive Safer America! makes instructional material available free of charge
to safety organizations and consumers.  For more information, visit Drive
Safer America! on the Internet at http://www.drivesaferamerica.org
    Consumers can also request a free Drive Safer America! brochure and ABS
instructional video in English or Spanish by calling toll-free at
800-694-5200.