As we begrudgingly welcome our first sights of snowfall in Long Island, it’s time to start preparing for the wintery weather. About 10% of all vehicle accidents in the US occur from snow or ice every year, a figure that exceeds 500,000 motor vehicle accidents. New York is a state that is consistently affected by winter weather for a large portion of the year. When the roads do get snowy or icy, these tips are essential to stay as safe as you can.

Watch Weather Reports

Winter storms can vary drastically, and certain conditions can make the roads particularly difficult to drive in. Additionally, having the most accurate approximation of when the storm will start will allow you to prepare ahead of time to get the things you need. Getting groceries, for example can be done ahead of time so that you have food in the house during the storm. Weather reports will issue Winter Weather Advisories or Winter Weather Warnings depending on the severity

Avoid Driving During Storms

This not only reduces your risk of an accident, it allows the snow plow crew to effectively clean the roadways. Your visibility is reduced and the roads can get very slippery very fast. Additionally, many businesses may be closed. Sometimes roads themselves are closed because they are too unsafe. If at all possible, it is best to just wait until the storm is over.

Make Sure Your Car is Ready

Make sure your tires are safe and ready for the winter. Safe travel on slippery roads can make a huge difference with good tires. Check the tire pressure and make sure it is adequate. Additionally, if possible, drive with an all wheel drive vehicle. They are better equipped to grip the road and not get stuck.

Further, it’s important to make sure you can see when driving in bad weather. If your wiper blades are old or ineffective, it’s a good idea to get them replaced. Many companies offer winter wiper blades. Also, make sure that your car’s windshield-wiper dispenser is filled with wiper fluid and that it is operational. Often ice can block the opening of the dispenser, inhibiting the release of the fluid, so check before you start driving.

Drive Cautiously

Even if you are driving an all-wheel-drive vehicle, be aware of its limitations. Many people are under the impression that if their vehicle is equipped with this function they are invincible in snowy weather. All-wheel-drive will help your vehicle travel up that snowy hill or move through a snow covered road, but it will not help you stop. That’s why it’s important to always drive slowly on snowy, icy roads.

Do every maneuver slowly and cautiously when the roads are snowy or icy. Accelerate slowly, brake slowly over a longer distance, turn slowly. Keep your headlights on. If you begin to slide, try to stay calm and don’t slam on the brakes. Turn your steering wheel in the opposite direction of where your car is sliding while gently tapping the brakes until you have gained control.