Tips to stay safe behind the wheel this winter

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Even if you're an experienced driver, adjusting to operating a vehicle in the snow can take a little bit of time. Indiana Department of Transportation spokeswoman Debbie Calder said it's always important to take your time when behind the wheel, experienced or not.

"The biggest thing for the first winter storm approaching us is to remind drivers how to drive safely in winter conditions and the first and biggest thing is to slow down," Calder said. "Drive according to the conditions of the roadway."

"The roads become snow-covered and hazardous real quick with the wind we're supposed to be getting along with the snow," Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Sgt. Tom Lehman said. "We would caution drivers to slow down, take their time."

After 16 years with the Sheriff's Office, Lehman said the most common accidents he's seen during winter months are rear end accidents. Something he said can be prevented most of the time.

"Leave plenty of space in between the car that they're following and themselves to allow for the braking distance," Lehman said.

"When you go to brake, brake slowly and don't slam on the brakes," Calder said. "We also ask when you're taking off and accelerating just accelerate gradually."

Calder said gradually accelerating helps prevent spinning out.

Another problem drivers might encounter on the roadways is black ice. Lehman said try not to panic if you hit a patch and start spinning.

"Steer into the spin and don't touch your brakes. Let the car follow the tail end with your steering," Lehman said about hitting black ice.

Another important tip from Sgt. Lehman is to leave early so you have plenty of time to travel.