Nine Tips for Safe Driving During South Dakota's Winters

Driving during South Dakota's winters can often be an adventure. Here are nine tips for safe winter driving from weather.com:

Tip # 1

Lower your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop.  You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.

Tip # 2

Brake gently to avoid skidding.  If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.

Tip # 3

Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.

Tip # 4

Keep your lights and windshield clean.

Tip # 5

Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.

Tip # 6

Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.

Tip # 7

Be careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first.

Tip # 8

Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks.

Tip # 9

Don't presume that your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.