Be Careful Out There: Winter Driving Tips

So far, Mother Nature has been inconsistent this winter, bringing us 50-degree temperatures one day and a mix of rain and snow showers the next.

With such unpredictable weather, it's even more important to be prepared for dangerous driving conditions.

Here are some safe driving tips for winter from the Oakland County Sheriff's Department:

• Have warm clothing available, but make sure while driving to wear comfortable clothing that will not affect your movement and ability to drive.
• Make sure you plan for longer commute times and tell someone where you are going.
• Always make sure you have enough windshield washer fluid. Having an extra bottle available in your car is a good idea.
• Drive slowly: When starting your vehicle from a stopped position, start slowly and make slow turns.
• Keep in mind that overpasses and bridges are likely to freeze before main roads.
• If you get stranded, stay in your vehicle for warmth and safety while you wait for help.
• Keeping a winter survival kit in your vehicle is a great idea. Good things to keep in your car include a shovel, flashlight, ice scraper, first aid kit and nonperishable foods. 
• Always clear all the snow off of your car before you drive. Winter driving requires full visibility for you and other drivers. If there are mounds of snow on the roof of the car, it can cause problems for other drivers when it blows off.
• Be sure to routinely check your vehicle to make sure everything is working properly. Burned-out headlights and bald tires can cause big problems, especially during the winter.
• Though tailgating is never good practice, make the gap between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you even larger. 
• When you see patches of black ice, drive slowly and keep your foot off the brakes.