Beware Of The Black Ice!

The season has changed and the temperatures have gotten much cooler. Commuters both near and far may be faced with possible delays on the roads due to wintry conditions this season. Hazards during winter for drivers are especially heightened when the snow and ice starts to accumulate on the roads, and many say that the best way to avoid such delays would be to not travel on the roadways at all. Many commuters have places to go during the season, so here are some tips to help navigate through the hazardous conditions of the season that may arise on those potentially dangerous roads:1. Get informed.
Watch and listen to the local on-air meteorologist for updates about an upcoming or occurring storm. Allow plenty of travel time in the morning. Also check the Kean University website for postings on school closings or cancelled classes because of the wintry conditions. This will save commuters from driving on the hazardous roads only to find that class has been cancelled. Kean also offers CampusAlertT to notify the college community about any emergencies
or announcements.

2. Brush off the snow.
Driving with snow on the car is a growing hazard during the winter season because of the potential scenario that it will blow into the path of other drivers on the roadways. It is illegal to leave ice or snow on the hood and roof of the car. Take the time to brush the snow off the car and clean the lights, windows, trunk, hood, and roof. This will help to make the roadways a safer environment for all travelers on the road.

3. Pump it up.
Cars should not be forgotten during the season, and to ensure the quality of one's car, they should winterize it! Everyone should get a check-up for their car by having the exhaust system, tires and tire pressure, heater/defroster, and wipers checked to ensure they are working properly. Make sure the windshield wiper fluid is full and keep a safety kit handy in case of an emergency. Driving with low gas may result in a gas line freeze up, so to avoid this, one should keep the gas tank filled at least halfway.

4. Take precaution.
Snow and ice, added with cars and trucks on the roads, requires intensive precaution for commuters and travelers. Black ice is a major hazard to drivers in the winter, because the phenomenon is transparent, therefore making it hard to spot. Slowing down and allowing more travel time will help to minimize this danger. Leaving at least 100 feet between yourself and the car in front of yours will also prevent accidents. If the car skids, do not slam on the brakes! Take your foot of the accelerator and steer the car in the desired direction, while gently applying the brakes. Remember to always wear a seat belt when inside a car.

5. Do not pass the plow.
The road in front of the plow truck is most commonly the worst condition. Visibility may be reduced because of the snow being eliminated from the road. To avoid this visibility hazard, keep a safe following distance (at least 200 feet) behind the truck and DO NOT pass the plow; also remember to keep your lights on during hazardous weather.

Stay safe this winter season!